Does Chewing Gum After Eating Affect the Metabolism?

Metabolism is the process by which your body converts the food and beverages you consume into energy. The process of chewing, digesting and transporting food also requires energy, thereby increasing your metabolism. It is a natural process that's influenced by your age, body weight and gender. Physical activity also increases your metabolism. Even chewing gum requires jaw movement, so this activity requires energy output.

Researchers from the University of Rhode Island set out to discover how chewing gum affects metabolism. Kathleen Melanson, URI associate professor of nutrition and food sciences, found that those who chewed sugar-free gum for three 20-minute intervals consumed 67 fewer calories that day and had a 5 percent increase in their metabolism. Although this is statistically insignificant in weight management, chewing gum for several hours a day may help support weight loss. It's important to consider this was a small study involving 35 men and women, and more extensive research is required.

In addition to chewing sugar-free gum frequently, you should perform physical exercise daily to boost your metabolism effectively. Consider 30 minutes of cardio exercises such as stair climbing and jogging daily, as well as eating meals that contain proteins, complex carbs and healthy fats frequently.