Advantages and disadvantages of chewing gum in childhood

It is clear that children love knickknacks, so clear that they should not abuse them. The same goes for chewing gum or chewing gum that many children begin to consume from a young age without knowing very well how they affect the health of children. Should children chew gum without restrictions? We

It is clear that children love knickknacks, so clear that they should not abuse them. The same goes for chewing gum or chewing gum that many children begin to consume from a young age without knowing very well how they affect the health of children.

Should children chew gum without restrictions? We analyze the advantages and disadvantages of chewing gum for children, something that in principle should not be a problem but, like everything in the matter of habits, is a matter of moderation. Although ideally we do not habitue children to eat sweets or trinkets.

Advantages of chewing gum for children

Although it may seem incredible, chewing gum has some benefits for children and also for adults. One of them is that chewing produces a greater amount of saliva and that helps digestion and not having the sensation of dry mouth. The chewing gum also reduces the appetite sensation and that can be useful so that the children are not stinging between hours.

For children who suffer anxiety or who are too nervous chewing gum can serve as a method to reduce the nerves. And there are even dentists who recommend the use of chewing gum with xylitol to strengthen the tooth enamel, stop the appearance of plaque in the mouth and provide calcium phosphate. Sometimes chewing gum is also recommended for medical reasons in cases of otitis or to stimulate mandibular development.

Disadvantages of chewing gum for children

Logically, these advantages can become inconvenient if children chew gum. The feeling of fullness that can prevent overeating can also cause gas and other gastrointestinal problems. And the mandibular development can be damaged if the consumption of chewing gum is excessive. In addition, it is not recommended that children chew gum until after 4 years.

The main disadvantage of chewing gum is found in gum with sugar because of the obvious risks to children's oral health. Like any other candy, chewing gums contain too much sugar and can cause problems such as diabetes or overweight and the dyes used are not exactly the healthiest components for a child.

So negative would be to demonize the consumption of chewing gum in children as to promote its consumption without measure. Special mention deserves the myth or the urban legend of the gastrointestinal problems that can cause chewing gum. A child accidentally swallowing a gum does not pose a risk to their health, but that is not an impediment for us to pay close attention when the little ones have chewing gum in their mouths.

Laura Vélez. Editor of Guiainfantil.com