Is Chewing Gum Better Than Snacking?

Chewing gum has been a popular pastime for centuries. The origin dates back to ancient civilizations. Today, chewing gum comes in various forms and flavors. Yet, not all gums are created equal. In this article, we will look into the debate of whether chewing gum is better than snacking. Before we do this, it’s essential to understand the distinctions between different types of chewing gum options. This will give us a better understanding of the query.

Healthy and Unhealthy Chewing Gum

Healthy Chewing Gums

The healthy chewing gum is distinguished by ingredients such as xylitol, which is labelled as sugar-free chewing gum. It offers a range of benefits beyond just freshening breath. These gums are formulated to promote oral health by stimulating saliva production. It helps neutralize acids in the mouth and reduce plaque buildup. [1]

They typically do not contain sugar or artificial additives. It makes them preferable for those conscious of their dental hygiene and overall well-being.

Unhealthy Chewing gums

On the other hand, unhealthy chewing gum may contain high amounts of sugar, artificial sweeteners, and other additives. These can contribute to dental decay and other health issues. Such types of chewing gums are the popular ones. These gums may provide a temporary burst of flavour and sweetness but can harm oral health when consumed regularly.

Unhealthy or popular chewing gums are not beneficial in any aspect whether you compare them with snacks or healthier chewing gums. They are not recommended because of adverse health effects.

Snacking: The Good and the Bad

Healthy Snacks

Snacking can be both a boon and a bane for our health. It depends on the choices we make. If you are opting for nutritious snacks like fruits, vegetables, nuts, or yoghurt, snacking can be beneficial. It will provide essential nutrients, boost energy levels, and help maintain blood sugar levels throughout the day. Moreover, snacking can prevent overeating during main meals and contribute to a well-rounded diet.

Unhealthy Snacks

Unhealthy snacking habits, such as indulging in sugary treats, processed snacks, or high-calorie foods, can have negative results. It causes weight gain and sudden spikes in blood sugar. Furthermore, this increases the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Frequent consumption of these snacks can have adverse effects on dental health. It is contributing to cavities, gum disease, and enamel erosion.

So, before exploring if chewing gum is better than snacking or not, we should consider what snack we are comparing it with. If it is a healthier snack, surely the snack is better. Yet, if the snack you take is a sugar-containing or an unhealthy snack, chewing gum is better. Unhealthy snacks are the ones usually characterized by high content of fermentable carbohydrates and saturated fats.

Healthy Chewing Gum vs. Snacking

When comparing healthy chewing gum to snacking, several factors come to notice. It includes caloric intake, impact on dental health, and appetite control. Knowing these differences can help individuals make better choices about their dietary habits.

1. Caloric Intake and Nutritional Value

Healthy chewing gum, particularly sugar-free options, typically contains minimal to no calories. It makes it a guilt-free option for those looking to satisfy their cravings without adding to their daily calorie intake.
Snacking can vary significantly in caloric content. Nutrient-dense snacks like fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre with relatively low calories. Yet, indulgent snacks like chips, cookies, and candies can pack a high-caloric punch. It causes weight gain over time.

2. Impact on Dental Health

Healthy chewing gum, especially those containing xylitol, can promote dental health by increasing saliva production, remineralizing enamel, and reducing plaque buildup. This can lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Find out why you need xylitol in your chewing gum.
Snacks can have adverse effects on dental health. Sugary snacks provide a food source for bacteria in the mouth. It leads to acid production and eventual tooth decay. Sticky snacks like caramel or dried fruit can cling to teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.

3. Appetite Control and Weight Management

Chewing gum may help control appetite and reduce food cravings [2]. It is a useful tool for individuals looking to manage their weight. The act of chewing gum can help occupy the mouth and satisfy oral cravings without consuming additional calories.
Snacking, when done mindfully and with nutritious options, can also contribute to appetite control and weight management. It provides satiety between meals and prevents overeating during main meals. However, indulging in unhealthy snacks high in sugar, salt, and fat can lead to overconsumption of calories.

4. Price Comparison

If we talk about snacking, it is done frequently for those who love it. They are spending a huge amount on snacks while not getting any benefits. Contrarily, chewing gums costs less. They also provide a multitude of benefits. Overall, chewing gum is better than snacking in terms of its price as well.

Final Thoughts!

While healthy chewing gum offers benefits for oral health and appetite control with minimal impact on caloric intake, snacking can provide essential nutrients [3]. Yet, it requires careful selection to avoid excess calories and promote dental health. If you are not sure about what healthier snack to choose, chewing gum is a better option. People with dental issues such as cavities and Xerostomia should also consider chewing gum instead of snacking.

References

[1] Short-term effects of chewing gum on snacking – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S019566630600626X?via%3Dihub.

[2] Chewing gum reduces snack cravings – https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090419133824.htm

[3] Gum health and quality of life – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9675234/