Gum

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Gum

Gum may seem like a simple and everyday item, but there are actually many interesting facts and surprising things that you may not know about this popular snack. Here are 10 things you probably didn’t know about gum:

1. The oldest piece of gum ever discovered is over 5,000 years old. Archaeologists found a lump of chewed tree sap in Finland that dates back to the Neolithic period. This shows that people have been chewing gum for thousands of years.

2. Chewing gum can help improve concentration and focus. Studies have shown that chewing gum can increase blood flow to the brain, which can help improve cognitive function and mental alertness.

3. People in ancient civilizations, such as the Mayans and Greeks, also used to chew gum made from tree sap. They believed that it had medicinal properties and could help with digestion and oral health.

4. The first commercially-produced chewing gum was created in the 19th century by John Curtis. He made the gum from spruce tree sap and called it “State of Maine Pure Spruce Gum.”

5. Chewing gum can help relieve stress and anxiety. The act of chewing gum can help reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol and decrease feelings of anxiety and tension.

6. The world record for the largest bubblegum bubble ever blown is held by Chad Fell, who set the record in 2004 with a bubble measuring 20 inches in diameter.

7. Gum is banned in Singapore. In 1992, the Singapore government prohibited the sale and import of chewing gum due to concerns about litter and vandalism caused by gum chewing.

8. Chewing gum can help with weight loss. Chewing gum can help suppress appetite and reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks, making it a useful tool for those looking to lose weight.

9. The ingredients in gum are not easily digestible. While most gum is made from synthetic rubber and other ingredients that are not easily broken down by the digestive system, it is typically passed through the digestive tract without causing any harm.

10. Some professional athletes chew gum during games to improve their performance. Chewing gum has been found to help increase heart rate, improve hand-eye coordination, and enhance physical endurance, making it a popular choice for athletes looking for a competitive edge.

Gum may seem like a simple and unassuming product, but it has a long and fascinating history, as well as numerous health and performance benefits. Next time you reach for a stick of gum, remember these interesting facts and appreciate all the surprising things that this little snack can do.