Evidence supporting the use of: Gum
For the health condition: Concentration (poor)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Chewing gum has been the subject of several scientific studies exploring its effects on cognitive functions, including concentration and attention. The act of chewing appears to increase arousal and may enhance blood flow to the brain, which could temporarily improve cognitive performance. Multiple randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have reported modest short-term benefits of chewing gum on measures of attention and concentration, particularly during tasks requiring sustained focus. The effects are generally small and may be influenced by factors such as flavor, duration of chewing, and individual differences.

For example, a review published in 2015 in Appetite concluded that chewing gum can improve aspects of attention and alertness, although the effects are inconsistent and sometimes short-lived. Another study published in the British Journal of Psychology found that participants who chewed gum performed better on tasks requiring sustained attention compared to those who did not. However, other studies have found no effect or noted that the benefits dissipate quickly after chewing stops.

Overall, while chewing gum is not a substitute for other strategies to improve concentration, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting its short-term use as a simple aid for enhancing attention and concentration in some individuals.

More about gum
More about Concentration (poor)

Products containing gum

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.