Chewing gum is probably one of the most satisfying things to do when you’re restless or just bored out of your mind in the middle of a dreadfully banal task. There is something so instantly pleasurable about putting a flavorful stick of gum in your mouth and letting it unleash its magic. Not only does chewing gum aid in refreshing your breath on short notice, but it has also been linked to incredible benefits like improving memory. Many people claim that chewing gum aids them in feeling fuller faster and some other claim that it helps them feel less hungry.
In the same vein, chewing gum has often been linked to its ability in helping people lose weight. But is this claim really true?
How Chewing Gum May Aid In Weight Loss
If you’re a fan of reality television and have binged on The Biggest Loser, you may be aware that contestants on the show use chewing gum regularly as part of their weight loss diet. Numerous studies conducted on the relation between chewing gum and weight loss show that this habit can help you manage your hunger and even keep cravings in check. Sounds a little crazy, right? How can the humble chewing gum aid in the mammoth task of shedding pounds for good?
Well, it is all about creating a small impact that adds up to big results over time.
A study conducted by the University of Rhode Island on this subject revealed that individuals who chewed gum were more likely to consume fewer calories throughout the day. Although the total caloric difference came to only around 68 calories lesser, it is surely better than nothing. The participants in this study were also reportedly less prone to succumb to fatty treats throughout the rest of the day. Lastly, the gum-chewing subjects lost an average of 5% more calories than the ones who didn’t.
Another study conducted by Louisiana State University found that chewing gum may aid appetite control. In this study, participants were found to consume an average of 40 fewer calories. The snack cravings they felt were also fewer, and sweet consumption declined.
While the few calories that chewing gum can help you cut in a day may seem trivial, if you were to add a few other lifestyle changes to the mix, you’ll notice a big change over time. Small changes like taking the stairs instead of the elevator and switching to a diet free from processed foods can add up to you being 10 pounds lighter in a year!
For the best results, stick to a sugar-free gum that has fewer calories from sugar.
Chewing Gum Instead of Indulging Your Sweet Tooth
Candy is central to many celebrations and festivities in the US, and also a big part of our supermarkets. While chewing gum is usually sold close to the candy aisles, it is far from being the sugary monstrosity that candy is. If you are someone who likes snacking on sweets and candy, switching to chewing gum instead of your regular sugar-fix can help you tremendously. The biggest advantage of chewing gum instead of a candy bar or ice-cream cone is that it will give you the little sugar rush you crave without adding a bilk of calories.
While it won’t make much of a difference unless you supplement this change with healthy lifestyle choices, chewing gum can aid your weight loss journey.
Final Thoughts
Chewing gum is widely accepted as a low-calorie substitute for dessert in many diets and programs. Since they have almost zero calories, it is safe to consume in moderation. While diets like Weight Watchers put chewing gum in the category of ‘free foods’, it is important that you don’t go overboard.
For the best weight loss results, we recommend finding a healthy diet plan that works for you and adding in regular exercise to your routine. It doesn’t have to be intensive either. Starting with something as simple as a morning jog or twenty push-ups can eventually help you develop the motivation and stamina to do more.
As far as chewing gum’s role in your weight loss journey goes, it will help you by acting as a healthier substitute for treats that have a high fat or sugar content. However, if you overdo it, the benefits will get watered down. In any case, if you want a sweet(ish) burst of flavor in your mouth without the added calories and following guilt, chewing gum may be your best bet!
This article was guest written by Sarah Youngs, a frequent writer at bigbluetest.org
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