Pilots chew gum primarily to settle their stomachs during flight.
Gum chewing has a long history with aviators, and while there might be several reasons why a pilot chooses to chew gum, a primary reason is for its potential to alleviate stomach discomfort during flight. One historical reason relates to the pepsin content in some gums.
Historical Use and Benefits
According to historical accounts, gum was a favorite among American aviators because its pepsin would help settle their stomachs. Pepsin is an enzyme that aids in digestion and can help reduce nausea or upset stomach, issues that could arise during flight due to turbulence or anxiety.
- Settling the Stomach: Gum’s pepsin content helped alleviate stomach discomfort.
- Tradition: Renowned pilot Chuck Yeager famously chewed gum before every flight.
Modern Reasons for Chewing Gum
While the pepsin benefit might be less of a factor with modern gums, which often do not contain pepsin, other benefits remain:
- Reducing Ear Pressure: Chewing helps equalize pressure in the ears during ascent and descent. This is similar to how yawning or swallowing helps.
- Stress Relief: The act of chewing can be a stress reliever, helping pilots stay calm and focused.
- Staying Alert: The repetitive motion of chewing can help pilots stay awake and alert during long flights.
- Dry Mouth: Flying can often lead to dry mouth, and chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps to keep the mouth moist.
Conclusion
While specific benefits may vary based on the type of gum and the pilot's individual needs, chewing gum offers practical and historical advantages in the aviation context.
