The first chewing gum that mankind had a chance to know was gum tree bark resin, popular in Greece. Over time, other cultures began to find their own ways to freshen the breath - for example, the Aztecs used the milk from the sapwood trunk for this purpose. Later, spruce rubbers were produced on a larger scale. At the end of the 19th century, rubber appeared, the form of which was very similar to what we know today. Today, this product is produced from polymers, most often polyisobutylene. In addition, it includes dyes as well as fragrances and flavors.
There are many myths about chewing gum that have their followers, even when scientific research strongly contradicts them. Below are some of them.
Chewing gum spoils the teeth
Many people believe that the fact that rubber protects teeth against tooth decay is just a marketing ploy, and that the product does more harm than help. This is not true. Gum can actually have a beneficial effect on teeth, but this only applies to the sugar-free versions containing xylitol, i.e. natural sugar.
Gum kills the feeling of hunger
This claim is a myth, as evidenced by the latest scientific research. According to them, it may even be the opposite. Mint chewing gum makes sweets, chips and fast food much more popular. Fruit and vegetables in combination with mint have a bitter aftertaste, so they are put aside.
Chewing gum does not affect our health
It all depends on how much it is consumed. Chewing can lead to disorders of the temporomandibular joints, manifested by pain in the jaw, head or neck. In addition, large amounts of air are swallowed when chewing, which can result in intestinal cramps and abdominal pain.
Chewing gum is digested for 7 years
This is not true, as the gum in the stomach is broken into smaller pieces and eliminated with other food.
Gum can stick to the stomach wall
There is a belief that swallowed gum can clog the stomach. It is not possible. Swallowing one gum from time to time is not terrible, but swallowing several pieces at once can cause intestinal obstruction, constipation or discomfort in the digestive system.
Chewing gum can replace a toothbrush
Definitely not - it can only support the teeth cleaning process. It can be useful when you do not have a toothbrush with you, as it supports the secretion of saliva necessary for the natural cleansing of the mouth.
Chewing gum is not addictive
You can become addicted to chewing gum as well as to alcohol or cigarettes. An addicted person can use at least a pack of gums a day.
Chewing gum doesn't cause wrinkles
This is not true. Chewing gum can cause wrinkles, furrows around the mouth, and may even alter the lip line.
The gum whitens the teeth
Chewing gum does not have bleaching properties. It may only contain particles that help to get rid of food debris from the dental space.
Rubber can modify human DNA
Some studies have shown that the titanium dioxide in chewing gum can find its way into human DNA by modifying it, which may be responsible for cancer. However, this ingredient is also found in toothpaste and powdered sugar - products that have been used for many years.