Chewing gum and stress reduction

The behavioral effects of chewing gum have been studied for over 80 years and much of the research has been concerned with increases in alertness and attention. Another line of research has addressed the issue of whether chewing gum reduces stress. This topic has been studied in the laboratory, in epidemiological studies and real-life interventions.

The present article briefly reviews the area and makes the case for dissemination of the findings with the aim of reducing stress in the general population and patient groups.