SaedNews: Experts say that chewing gum can be harmful to human health.
According to SAEDNEWS, chewing gum has many fans, especially among children. Even adults like to chew gum for a few minutes after eating a heavy meal. However, chewing gum can have side effects on human health. In this report, we review the most common side effects of chewing gum:
1- Increased consumption of unhealthy foods: Some people suggest that chewing gum before eating can reduce appetite and calorie intake. However, recent research by American scientists shows that this is not true; instead, chewing mint gum reduces the desire to eat healthy foods such as fruits and increases the tendency to consume unhealthy foods such as chips and chocolate.
2- Jaw joint disorders: Chewing gum can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome. In this condition, pain occurs in the jaw muscles involved in chewing and in the joints connecting the lower jaw to the skull.
3- Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Chewing gum may cause irritable bowel syndrome in some people. Symptoms include abdominal pain, muscle cramps, and changes in bowel habits. Chewing gum increases the amount of air swallowed, which can lead to stomach pain and bloating.
4- Tooth decay: Gum manufacturers, to counteract the laxative effects of artificial sweeteners, use sugar in gum production. However, the sugar in gum can lead to tooth decay.
5- Presence of animal-derived ingredients: Few people know that gum contains a compound called lanolin. Lanolin, widely used in cosmetic products, makes gum softer. This yellow fatty substance is derived from sheep’s sebaceous glands. Although it is not harmful to health, its digestion is unpleasant.
6- Risk of mercury poisoning: Gum is often sold in silver-colored packaging. This packaging contains mercury, silver, and tin. Studies show that chewing gum can release mercury into the body. High levels of mercury in the body can cause neurological problems, chronic diseases, and mental disorders. However, small amounts of mercury are not dangerous, and the body can eliminate them.
