Researching the wonders of chewing gum

Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co. suggests chewing gum may provide a range of health benefits, and it hopes the Wrigley Science Institute can provide some hard science to back these assertions:

Eases tension: What's behind the common practice of chewing gum to relieve stress? Wrigley cites research showing that it stimulates certain areas of the brain.

May help with weight management: As a 5- to 10-calorie substitute for a high-calorie snack, gum could obviously reduce caloric intake. But does it help suppress appetite?

Improves concentration: Is gum-chewing a way to increase focus, concentration, and alertness? Wrigley points to studies that show that it increases blood flow to the brain.

Freshens breath: Chewing gum moistens and refreshes the mouth and throat and sweetens the breath.

Helps fight tooth decay: Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which helps neutralize acids from foods that may cause tooth decay.

SOURCE: Associated Press and www.wrigley.com