Is Your Chewing Gum Full of Microplastics? Here’s What You Should Know
Is Your Chewing Gum Full of Microplastics? Here’s What You Should Know
New Study Suggests Chewing Gum May Release Thousands of Microplastics into the Body
Chewing gum is often associated with fresh breath and improved focus, but new research from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) raises concerns about an unexpected health risk—microplastic ingestion.
The study suggests that chewing gum could introduce thousands of plastic particles into the body, potentially affecting brain health and the nervous system.
Chewing Gum and Hidden Microplastics
Unlike traditional gum made from tree sap, modern chewing gum contains synthetic polymers like polyethylene and polyvinyl acetate—the same materials used in plastic bags and adhesives. As gum is chewed, saliva and friction break down the gum base, releasing microplastics that may be swallowed or absorbed by the body.
The UCLA study, currently under peer review, found that each gram of gum can release up to 600 microplastic particles, meaning a single piece of gum could introduce over 1,000 microplastics into the body. These findings raise concerns about long-term exposure and its potential effects on human health.
Can Microplastics Affect the Brain?
Research suggests that microplastics can pass through biological barriers, including the gut lining and, in some cases, even the blood-brain barrier. Animal studies indicate that these particles may impact memory, learning, and motor skills. While more research is needed to confirm the effects on humans, experts warn that frequent gum chewers could be at higher risk of exposure.
How to Reduce Microplastic Exposure
To minimize microplastic intake, experts recommend:
Switching to natural gum made from chicle, a plant resin, instead of synthetic plastics.
Choosing minimally processed gum that does not contain synthetic polymers.
Eating an antioxidant-rich diet to combat oxidative stress caused by environmental toxins.
As researchers continue to study the long-term effects of microplastic ingestion, being mindful of gum choices could be a simple yet effective step in protecting overall health and brain function.
