Choose the Right Chewing Gum

Buying gum may seem simple, but there are many health issues to consider. Read on.

Steps

Consider your insulin production. Are you diabetic? If so, sugarless gum may be for you.
Think about your reaction to sugar. Even if you're not diabetic, sugar can still be harmful to your health. Does diabetes run in your family? Does sugar make you hyper? If so, you should avoid sugar as much as possible.
Recall your dental health. Do you have a history of many tooth cavities, or want to avoid them? Again, sugarless gum may be for you.
Analyze your allergies. Have you had allergic reactions to artificial sweeteners? If so, and you also want to avoid sugar, so you must decide: How bad is your reaction to artificial sweeteners, compared to wanting to avoid cavities, etc. You may decide to avoid gum altogether.
Assess whether you're trying to quit a smoking addiction. If you have a history of smoking, and want to stop, you might want to try a type of nicotine gum. This can help you in quitting smoking.
Accommodate dental work. If you wear dentures or braces, and regular gum sticks to them, consider trying gum specially made for them, as they are less sticky.
Think about your kidney health Do you have kidney issues? Sugarless gum isn't for you then, instead go for gum with sugar, but limit your chewing and brush after chewing.

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If you feel you have not been exposed to certain artificial sweeteners, chew a tiny, tiny piece of gum containing it, at first.
Chewing gum can sweeten your breath, aid in digestion and clean teeth.
Some gum contains tooth-whiteners.
Some people feel chewing gum looks cool, though is unacceptable during job interviews, etc. Be careful, because others think it is a disgusting habit.
Dispose of your chewed gum properly; it is best to place it in its original wrapper and throw it in the trash. Spitting it on the ground is often illegal, as it spreads disease and pets or people can step in it. It is also unsightly and expensive to remove, and makes you look gross.
Some people substitute gum for smoking cigarettes.
While it sounds like an overreaction, do not hesitate to discuss these issues with your doctor or dentist. In fact, it is recommended.
Chewing gum might help reduce sugar cravings. Just be sure to brush your teeth afterwards!

Make sure to keep gum out of reach of dogs, especially sugar free gum. Sugar free gum may contain xylitol, which can cause sudden life-threatening illness in dogs.
Dispose of your gum properly, in a trash can.
Do not give gum to young children, as it can be a choking hazard.
Gum may loosen dentures or stick to fillings.

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