The most unhealthy gum is sugar-sweetened gum because of its negative effects on dental and metabolic health.
The Downside of Sugar-Sweetened Gum
Chewing gum loaded with sugar can be detrimental to your teeth. Here's why:
- Plaque Buildup: Sugar is a favorite food source for harmful bacteria residing in your mouth. When these bacteria digest sugar, they produce acids that erode tooth enamel and lead to an increase in plaque.
- Tooth Decay: The increased acidity and plaque accumulation contribute significantly to tooth decay over time (Reference: sugar-sweetened gum).
- Metabolic Health: While the direct effect of chewing sugar gum on metabolic health is not detailed in the provided reference, it's understood that excessive sugar consumption can negatively affect metabolic health.
In conclusion, if you're going to chew gum, opt for sugar-free varieties to avoid the detrimental effects of sugar on your teeth.
