Benefits: Curbing Snack Cravings
Looking to shed some pounds or adopt a healthier diet? Studies have revealed that chewing sugar-free gum following a meal can enhance feelings of fullness, curbing your appetite in the immediate term and decreasing the probability of mindless snacking between meals. Additionally, research suggests that gum chewing may temporarily boost your body’s energy expenditure, allowing you to burn a few extra calories.
Cons: Potential Digestive Discomfort
For individuals experiencing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it may be wise to avoid chewing gum. This is because sugar alcohols, such as mannitol and sorbitol, commonly used to sweeten sugar-free gum, can act as laxatives and potentially lead to diarrhea when consumed in large quantities. Additionally, chewing gum can result in increased air intake, which may contribute to bloating, abdominal pain, and gassiness.