Disposal | Chewing gum

Disposal

One problem, however, is the disposal of used chewing gum. As already mentioned in the beginning, spitting on the sidewalk is a bad habit and connected with high costs for the disposal. It is better to wrap the chewing gum in paper and dispose of it in the trash can. The chewing gums of the past gradually decomposed, but this is usually not the case with the chewing gums of today.

Calorie content of chewing gum

Chewing gums contain calories, even if only in small amounts. The majority mistakenly assume that the calories are not absorbed by spitting out the chewing gum, which is wrong. The fact that the chewing gum changes shape and consistency over time is a sign that the body is removing and digesting the contents of the chewing gum.

These include primarily polyhydric alcohols, which includes the group of sweeteners. Nevertheless, the calorie count of sugar-free chewing gum is low, which means about 5 kcal per chewing gum. Therefore, the consumption of these is safe in terms of calories. Care should be taken with sugary chewing gums, however, as they may contain considerably more calories.

Chewing gum against nausea

Chewing gums are especially popular with people suffering from nausea. These include special chewing gums against travel sickness. These chewing gums contain the active ingredient dimenhydrinate, which works directly at the vomiting center of the brain.

Dimenhydrinate ensures that the nausea receptors are inhibited and the reflex to vomit is prevented. Furthermore, the consumption of chewing gum causes tiredness and a slight dizziness, which makes the person concerned rest when travelling. Side effects of the active substance can be an increased heart rate, dry mouth and an increase in intraocular pressure, which is why the intake must be clarified strictly with the treating physician.

Furthermore, the suitability of the chewing gum for the patient and the dosage should be discussed with the doctor in advance to avoid undesirable side effects. The application takes place by chewing the chewing gum for half an hour approximately one hour before the start of the journey or, if necessary, additionally during the journey. Afterwards the chewing gum should be spat out.

For adults, however, the maximum number of chewing gum to be consumed per day is 7. The maximum dose for children between 6 and 12 years is 4 chewing gums. Accidental swallowing is also harmless. This may also be of interest to you: Household remedy against nausea