The gastroenterologist warned about the dangers of prolonged chewing gum for the gastrointestinal tract

Prolonged chewing of chewing gum can negatively affect the condition of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Evgeny Belousov, gastroenterologist of JSC "Medicine", Candidate of Medical Sciences, warned about this on Monday, May 25.

The specialist noted that chewing gum triggers the so-called hungry phase of digestion: chewing and tasting stimulate the vagus nerve, increase salivation and reflexively increase the production of gastric juice.

"In a healthy person, this usually does not lead to damage to the mucous membrane, but with increased acidity, GERD or active gastritis, prolonged chewing on an empty stomach can increase discomfort, heaviness, and heartburn," the doctor said in an interview with Lenta.Ru .

Belousov added that with chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract on an empty stomach and with severe pain, nausea, and active inflammation, chewing gum should be avoided so as not to stimulate excess acid secretion and not provoke the contents to be thrown into the esophagus.

According to the expert, chewing sugar-free gum for 10-20 minutes after meals two to three times a day is considered safe on average. Prolonged and frequent chewing puts strain on the temporomandibular joint, increases the risk of ingestion of air (flatulence, belching).

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In turn, dentist Irina Pershina told RT how to chew chewing gum properly so that it does not harm your health. The specialist advised to choose sugar-free options, paying attention to products with xylitol in the composition, reports 360.ru .

In January, National Geographic magazine reported that chewing gum can not only be a delicious treat, but also benefit the brain. Research shows that chewing can improve attention and reduce stress levels, although scientists still do not agree on the exact mechanisms of this process.