Constantly chewing gum can help strengthen the masticatory muscles - that help you chew
While many people like chewing gum, others do that to help strengthen their jaw muscles and give it a chiselled shape. Experts say while chewing gum is harmless in moderation, overdoing it leads to tooth problems or jaw pain from the TMJ - the joint that helps your jaw move.
So is facial fitness a reality?
Many claim that mastic gum—also known as facial fitness gum—helps shape the jawline, but these claims have not been proven by research. For a safer and more effective way to improve jaw appHaving gone viral on social media, people hope that facial fitness gum can shape and sharpen their jawlines. While many brands say it is like a workout for your face, researchers are not convinced. A few common myths associated with it are:
Chewing gum tones and tightens your jawline
It is commonly believed that gums work multiple muscles in your face and neck. But it has not been proven by science.
Chewing gum gives you a more chiseled look
Chewing a lot can make your jaw muscles bulk up, but that does not mean sharper features. In fact, overdoing it can even make it look wider or more square instead of defined.
It works the same for everyone
Your jawline depends on your bone structure, genetics, and body fat—but not the amount of gum you chew.
What does science say?
According to doctors, constantly chewing gum can help strengthen the masticatory muscles that help you chew. But while these may become stronger, it does not mean that the jawline can become sharper or more defined.
Studies say chewing increases bite force - especially if you have long and narrow faces. These people also see the biggest improvement in their ability to chew and grind food. It also helps build strength in your tongue and cheeks, thereby helping in swallowing properly.
However, strengthening the muscles for chewing will not change how your jawline looks because those muscles are usually in your cheeks and neck, and they do not shape the jawline.
In the end, your jawline’s shape mostly comes down to genetics.
What does chewing gum do to your health?
A few benefits of chewing gum include:
Freshen your breath
Chewing gum—if it is free of sugar—helps freshen your breath by stimulating saliva production, which washes away food particles and bacteria in your mouth.
Reduce stress
Chewing gum reduces stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and increasing blood flow to the brain.
Improve memory
Studies say chewing gum also helps improve your memory and concentration power by spiking oxygen flow in your brain.
Manage sleepiness
Chewing gum reduces feelings of sleepiness and improves alertness by increasing circulation and stimulating the brain.
Minimize food cravings
Studies also suggest that chewing gum curbs food cravings as it provides distraction and helps to manage hunger signals.
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.
