A recent review has highlighted the brain benefits of chewing gum, revealing how this common habit influences attention, stress, and overall alertness. Conducted by researchers at the University of Szczecin in Poland, the comprehensive analysis draws from over three decades of brain-imaging studies, employing techniques such as MRI and EEG to uncover the neurological effects of gum chewing.
The practice of chewing gum has a rich history, dating back at least 8,000 years. Early evidence shows that ancient societies, including the Greeks and Native American tribes, chewed various tree resins for pleasure and their soothing properties. In the late 19th century, William Wrigley Jr. revolutionized the industry, marketing products like Juicy Fruit and Spearmint as means to reduce stress and improve focus. This marketing strategy contributed to gum’s evolution into a mainstream product, as documented in Kerry Segrave’s book, *Chewing Gum in America, 1850-1920: The Rise of an Industry*.
Recent studies have begun to validate some of these historical claims. The review published in March 2025 analyzed how chewing gum affects specific brain regions tied to movement, attention, and stress management. Findings suggest that the act of chewing triggers significant changes in brain activity, which may explain why individuals report enhanced focus or calmness, even after the flavor has faded.
The research demonstrated that chewing gum activates both motor and sensory networks involved in the act of chewing, alongside higher-order brain areas linked to alertness and emotional regulation. Notably, EEG studies indicated brief shifts in brain-wave patterns that correlate with increased alertness and a state of “relaxed concentration.” As noted by Crystal Haskell-Ramsay, a professor of biological psychology at Northumbria University, chewing gum appears beneficial for maintaining concentration during repetitive tasks.
Furthermore, the review supports earlier research indicating that gum chewing can help alleviate stress in certain contexts. In controlled experiments, participants who chewed gum during mildly stressful activities, such as public speaking or complex calculations, reported lower anxiety levels than those who did not chew gum. Nevertheless, the stress-relieving effects were not consistently observed in high-stress situations, such as before surgical procedures, or when individuals encountered insurmountable problems designed to induce frustration.
Despite the promising insights regarding the cognitive benefits of chewing gum, the review also outlines several limitations. The enhancements in focus and stress reduction are often temporary. Participants who chewed gum did not show improved memory recall compared to non-chewers, and the attention-boosting effects tended to wane shortly after chewing stopped. Researchers speculate that the benefits may stem from a natural human inclination to fidget, rather than the act of chewing itself.
The study further emphasizes the necessity for future research to explore the long-term impacts of chewing gum, differentiate the roles of flavor and stress, and investigate potential therapeutic applications. Additionally, it is important to consider the potential downsides of gum chewing. Dental professionals warn that certain ingredients in gum, including acids and sweeteners, may harm teeth, even if the gum is sugar-free.
In summary, while chewing gum may offer some cognitive benefits, the complexity of its effects warrants further investigation. Understanding both its advantages and potential drawbacks is crucial for developing a comprehensive view of this long-standing habit.
