Chewing gum

Chewing Gum

Chewing gum (/ˈtʃuːɪŋ ɡʌm/) is a type of gum, designed to be chewed without being swallowed.

Etymology

The term "chewing gum" is derived from the verb "to chew" and the noun "gum". The verb "chew" originates from the Old English ceowan, which means to crush with the teeth and to masticate. The word "gum" comes from the Latin gumma, meaning a substance exuded from a tree.

History

Chewing gum has a long history, with evidence of its use dating back thousands of years. The ancient Greeks chewed mastic gum, made from the resin of the mastic tree. Native Americans chewed resin made from the sap of spruce trees. The modern form of chewing gum, made from synthetic materials, was first developed in the late 19th century.

Composition

Modern chewing gum is composed of gum base, sweeteners, flavorings, and softeners. The gum base is made from resins, waxes, and elastomers, which give the gum its chewy texture. Sweeteners, such as sugar or artificial sweeteners, are added to make the gum taste sweet. Flavorings are added to give the gum its specific taste, such as mint or fruit. Softeners are added to keep the gum soft and pliable.

Health Effects

Chewing gum has several potential health benefits. It can help to clean the teeth and freshen the breath. Some studies have suggested that it may also help to reduce stress and improve concentration. However, excessive chewing can lead to jaw problems, and some types of gum contain high levels of sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay.

Related Terms

• Gum base
• Sweeteners
• Flavorings
• Softeners
• Mastic gum
• Spruce gum

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Chewing gum
• Wikipedia's article - Chewing gum

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