It's no secret that chewing gum is considered one of the easiest ways to reduce stress. But is it truly effective? Let's delve into the details! 

Origin of the Claim

The claim that chewing gum can alleviate anxiety and stress didn't just appear out of thin air. Based on research presented at the 10th International Congress of Behavioral

Medicine in 2008, there is some evidence supporting this theory. 

What Are the Benefits?

1.    Reducing Anxiety: Studies have shown that chewing gum can decrease anxiety by up to 17% in mild stress conditions.

2.    Increasing Alertness: Chewing gum has been proven to boost alertness levels by up to 19%.

3.    Lowering Stress: Cortisol levels, which are indicators of stress in the body, are noted to be lower in those who chew gum.

4.    Enhancing Multitasking Performance: The ability to multitask significantly improves while chewing gum.

But, There Are Limits!

Despite its benefits, chewing gum too frequently is not advised due to potential negative effects:

1.    Jaw Joint Issues: Excessive chewing can cause problems with the jaw joint, potentially leading to jaw pain and headaches.

2.    Enamel Erosion: Sugar-free gum containing acids can erode tooth enamel.

3.    Digestive Issues: Artificial sweeteners often have a laxative effect, which can cause digestive disturbances and diarrhea.

Conclusion

While chewing gum can be a quick and easy way to relieve stress temporarily, it should not be considered a primary solution for mental or physical health issues. It's also important to maintain a balance in consumption and choose the right type of gum to avoid side effects.