Caffeinated chewing gum is a mild stimulant that takes effect more quickly than other sources of caffeine. It contains fewer calories and doesn’t stain teeth or increase the need to urinate, but some products may contain unhealthy ingredients and excessive consumption can lead to negative side effects.
As the name implies, caffeinated chewing gum is chewing gum to which caffeine has been added to create a mild stimulant effect on the consumer. Proponents of caffeinated gum argue that it takes effect more quickly than other common sources of caffeine and has fewer negative side effects than most alternative sources of caffeine. Others maintain that many caffeinated gum products contain unhealthy or artificial ingredients, and that, as with any source of caffeine, excessive use of gum can lead to unwanted side effects.
Caffeinated gum has been available in countries like the United States and Japan since the late 20th century. In the US, the product was brought to public attention in part through research conducted by the military in the early 2000s. Studies by the military concluded that caffeine-containing chewing gum could provide a more effective source of energy for sleep-deprived troops than products like coffee or energy drinks.
A typical piece of caffeinated gum contains between 40 and 100 milligrams of caffeine. By comparison, a small cup of coffee contains around 75 to 100 milligrams of caffeine. However, the main difference between gum and caffeinated beverages is their absorption route. Caffeine found in beverages is usually absorbed through the intestines and stomach, a process that can take up to an hour. Conversely, the caffeine found in the gums is absorbed through the oral tissue and thus begins to enter the bloodstream and boost energy in as little as five minutes.
According to promoters of caffeinated gums, along with a fast absorption rate, the product may also cause fewer negative side effects than other common sources of caffeine. For example, it generally doesn’t stain teeth like coffee does. Since it is not a liquid, it does not create an increased need to urinate. Plus, it contains fewer calories than some sources of caffeine.
Some detractors argue that many caffeinated gum products contain unhealthy artificial ingredients, as well as sugar, which can cause cavities. Furthermore, these detractors maintain that, as with any caffeinated product, excessive consumption of the gum can lead to a caffeine overdose, which in turn causes unpleasant symptoms such as headache, heart palpitations, agitation, insomnia, and nausea. The possibility of an overdose is a particular concern for some parents and caregivers because chewing gum has great appeal to children, many of whom do not yet understand the risks of caffeine use.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
