Studies indicate that chewing gum may offer slight yet advantageous cognitive benefits. In the following article, you will discover the advantages and learn how to make the most of them.
The cognitive advantages of chewing gum
There is a wealth of research on the subject of the cognitive advantages of chewing gum, which is consolidated in a comprehensive review of the impact of gum-chewing on factors like stress and alertness. The review uncovered a range of conflicting outcomes:
- A study examining the impact of gum chewing on short-term stress found no significant effects on self-reported stress or anxiety. However, there were conflicting findings regarding its influence on cortisol levels, which are used as a hormonal stress indicator.
- A study examining the effects of long-term and chronic stress discovered that chewing gum could potentially alleviate self-reported stress levels.
- Research has shown that chewing gum can enhance subjective alertness. However, the impact on markers of alertness and cognitive performance varied, indicating that individuals perceived increased alertness but the researchers did not always observe consistent physiological evidence for this.
- Studies have shown that chewing gum can have a positive impact on reaction time, especially when it comes to responding to sounds.
- The impact of chewing gum on memory and recollection remains inconclusive, with varying results.
Overall, the review suggests that chewing gum may have positive impacts on cognitive function. These effects are likely to enhance short-term alertness and improve reaction times, while possibly alleviating long-term and chronic stress.
Since the review was first published, recent research has emerged that supports the initial findings regarding enhanced alertness and reaction times. This research encompasses a comprehensive investigation into the impact of gum chewing on various aspects of cognitive functioning, including processing speed, vigilance, mood, and physiological indicators such as heart rate and EEG. Additionally, it explores the relationship between gum-chewing and cognitive performance, overall well-being, and related psychological factors.
Therefore, although gum-chewing should not be seen as a cure-all for anxiety, it can be viewed as a helpful psychological technique that aids in improved concentration and potentially reduces anxiety.
Exploring the potential benefits of chewing gum
One of the major benefits of using gum as a minor cognitive enhancer is its affordability, convenience, and safety. In essence, while it may not be as potent as stronger substances, it provides a straightforward method to enhance your performance.
Given the minimal investment required, it’s worth conducting your own experiment to determine if chewing gum is effective for you. In addition, while chewing gum may not have a direct impact, the placebo effect could potentially be advantageous. Basically, if you think that chewing gum can improve your calmness and alertness, it’s likely to have that effect, even if you’re aware that it’s just a placebo.
Summary and conclusions
- Studies indicate that chewing gum can provide certain immediate cognitive advantages, specifically by enhancing your attentiveness and boosting your response speed.
- Chewing gum has the potential to reduce both short-term and long-term stress, although the research on this topic is still inconclusive and highly dependent on various factors.
- The main benefits of gum as a potential cognitive enhancer are its affordability, safety, and ease of use, particularly when compared to other substances commonly used for cognitive enhancement.
- Given the minimal investment required, both in terms of finances and effort, it would be worthwhile to personally experiment with gum in relevant situations to determine its effectiveness for you.
- There are instances where belief in the effectiveness of chewing gum can result in a placebo effect, leading to the anticipated benefits. This can occur even in situations where you have prior knowledge of the placebo effect.
