Health - Wellness
Does Chewing Gum Help Prevent Heartburn?
By K. COSSEY
Heartburn is a side effect of acid reflux, which happens when your esophageal sphincter doesn’t close properly, and stomach acid leaks through your esophagus. While you can't fully avoid heartburn, chewing gum may help prevent it from occurring.
Chewing sugar-free gum allows our body to produce more saliva, which essentially washes stomach acid out of the mouth and esophagus, pushing it back toward the stomach. With less stomach acid in the esophagus, we’re less likely to experience acid reflux or its side effects.
While you want the gum to be sugar-free, gum flavored with mint and ginger can also help with an upset stomach. Chewing gum isn't for everyone though — particularly those with braces or who experience jaw pain — and there are plenty of over-the-counter heartburn remedies as well.