02/06/2026
Today is National Bubble Gum Day!
Chewing gum can help relieve stress, increases saliva production which can aid a dry mouth and reduce bacteria and it can increase blood flow to the brain, improving memory and cognition.
Gum was once made with natural tree resin but the majority are now made with synthetic petroleum-based versions. In a study, researchers found chewing gum can release hundreds to thousands of microplastics per piece into saliva which can then be ingested.
If you'd like to avoid eating microplastics, avoid "gum base" in the ingredient list and choose natural gums like chicle, mastic, gum arabic, and carnauba wax. These natural ingredients can be found in brands like Underbrush, Milliways, Refresh, Enamio and Chewsy. Now, it's not going to be the gum you're used to. The texture is firmer and takes a few chews to soften and the flavor usually isn't as strong, but many contain remineralizing nano-hydroxyapatite and xy to improve oral health.