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Changes in respiratory activity induced by mastication in humans.
G A Fontana1, T Pantaleo, F Bongianni
1Unitá di Fisiopatologia Respiratoria, Universitá di Firenze, Florence, Italy.
Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Chewing gum significantly increases breathing rate and airway resistance. Mastication influences respiratory muscles and can even entrain breathing rhythm, suggesting complex upper airway and chest wall interactions.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Respiratory Mechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Mastication is a complex motor activity involving facial and upper airway muscles.
- The influence of mastication on respiratory control is not fully understood.
- Investigating mastication's impact on respiration can reveal interactions between non-respiratory and respiratory functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of different mastication rates on respiratory activity in healthy individuals.
- To compare mastication-induced respiratory changes with those from rhythmic handgrip exercise.
- To explore the relationship between mastication, respiratory muscles, and breathing patterns.
Main Methods:
- Nine healthy volunteers participated.
- Participants performed mastication at spontaneous rate (SR) for 5 min and maximum possible rate (MPR) for 1 min.
- Respiratory frequency, tidal volume, airflow, airway resistance, and electromyographic activity of inspiratory muscles were measured.
- Rhythmic handgrip exercise was used for comparison.
Main Results:
- Both SR and MPR mastication significantly increased respiratory frequency and minute ventilation.
- Total airway resistance significantly increased during mastication.
- Mastication led to increased inspiratory muscle activity and altered breathing timing.
- SR mastication entrained the respiratory rhythm.
Conclusions:
- Mastication-induced hyperpnea involves more than a simple exercise response.
- Complex interactions between respiratory and non-respiratory functions are suggested.
- Mastication significantly impacts respiratory control and mechanics.