How Many Calories Do You Burn Chewing Gum?

Chewing gum is a common habit that many people engage in, whether it be to freshen their breath, help with concentration, or simply as a distraction. But did you know that chewing gum can also have an impact on your calorie burn? In this article, we will explore the science behind how many calories are burned when chewing gum and how this activity can fit into a weight loss or weight management plan.

First, it is important to understand that the number of calories burned while chewing gum is minimal. Chewing gum is not a significant form of exercise and should not be relied upon as a primary means of burning calories. According to the American Council on Exercise, the average person burns about 11 calories per hour while chewing gum. This is a relatively small amount and is not likely to have a significant impact on weight loss.

However, some studies have suggested that chewing gum may have a small but measurable effect on calorie burning. A study published in the International Journal of Obesity in 2011 found that people who chewed gum for an hour a day burned an average of 11 extra calories per day. Another study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2015 found that people who chewed gum for 45 minutes per day burned an average of 11 extra calories per day.

It’s worth noting that the calorie-burning effect of chewing gum may be greater for some people than others. Factors such as age, sex, weight, and overall activity level can all influence how many calories are burned while chewing gum. Additionally, different types of gum can also affect calorie burning. For example, gum with added caffeine may result in a slightly greater calorie burn than regular gum.

When we chew gum, we are engaging a number of muscles in our face, jaw, and neck. This muscle activity burns calories, although the number of calories burned is relatively small compared to other forms of exercise. According to research, the average person burns about 11 calories per hour of gum chewing. This may not seem like a lot, but it can add up over time.

It is important to note, however, that the calorie burn from gum chewing will vary from person to person depending on factors such as age, gender, weight, and overall level of physical activity. Additionally, different types of gum will have different effects on calorie burn. For example, sugar-free gum that contains xylitol will have a slightly higher calorie burn than regular gum.

Despite the relatively small number of calories burned from chewing gum, it can still be an effective tool for weight management. By incorporating gum chewing into your daily routine, you can add a small but consistent calorie burn to your day. This can help to boost your overall calorie burn and make it easier to achieve a calorie deficit, which is necessary for weight loss.

Additionally, chewing gum can also have a beneficial effect on appetite. Research has shown that chewing gum can reduce cravings for sweet and savory foods and can also reduce the amount of food consumed during a meal. This can be a helpful tool for weight management, as it can make it easier to stick to a healthy diet.

It’s also important to note that chewing gum is not a substitute for regular exercise and healthy eating habits. While it can be a helpful addition to a weight loss or weight management plan, it should not be relied upon as the sole method for achieving your goals. Rather, it should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise to achieve the best results.

In conclusion, chewing gum can have a small but measurable impact on calorie burn. While it may not be a significant source of calorie burn on its own, incorporating gum chewing into your daily routine can help to boost your overall calorie burn and make it easier to achieve a calorie deficit, which is necessary for weight loss. However, it’s important to note that gum chewing should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise to achieve the best results.