If you've ever watched a high-stakes cricket match, you've probably noticed Virat Kohli intently chewing gum on the field. This isn't just a casual habit; it's a strategic tool backed by solid science. Experts reveal that this simple act can significantly impact an athlete's mental state during critical moments.
The Calming Effect: How Chewing Gum Reduces Stress
According to fitness coach Gurjit Sindhu, chewing gum sends a powerful signal to the brain. The rhythmic, repetitive motion of chewing makes the brain believe the body is safe, which in turn lowers cortisol levels. Cortisol is the primary hormone associated with stress.
Dr. Aniruddha Vasant More, a Consultant Neurologist at Jupiter Hospitals in Thane, confirms this mechanism. He explains that chewing is a motor activity that activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation. Chewing gum can reduce mild stress or anxiety by lowering cortisol levels and providing a physical outlet for nervous energy. While it won't eliminate intense pressure, it can certainly soften its impact, helping individuals feel more grounded.
Boosting Brain Power: Enhanced Focus and Alertness
The benefits extend beyond just calming nerves. Research indicates that chewing gum can offer modest improvements in cognitive functions. Dr. More states that it can lead to small but noticeable gains in attention, sustained focus, reaction time, and working memory.
The science behind this is fascinating. Chewing increases blood flow to the brain by 20–25%, providing more oxygen and nutrients. It also offers sensory stimulation that keeps the brain engaged. Furthermore, the act triggers a mild release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to motivation and reward, which enhances the feeling of focus and alertness.
Hormonal and Neurological Changes
The effects of chewing gum are rooted in complex hormonal and neurological shifts. Hormonally, there is a decrease in the stress hormone cortisol and a mild increase in epinephrine, which improves alertness.
Neurologically, there is increased activation in the prefrontal cortex—the brain region responsible for decision-making and focus. The repetitive motion also leads to a slight increase in heart rate, enhancing blood flow to the brain. This combination of calming and stimulating effects explains why chewing gum is so effective for athletes under pressure.
Is It Healthy? The Pros and Cons
For healthy adults, chewing gum in moderation is generally considered safe and can offer benefits like reduced stress, better concentration, and fresher breath. Using sugar-free gum can also help reduce snacking.
However, excessive chewing can lead to potential risks such as jaw strain, TMJ pain, bloating from swallowed air, and digestive discomfort from sugar alcohols. Dr. More recommends limiting consumption to 2-4 sugar-free gums per day and advises people with pre-existing jaw pain to avoid prolonged chewing.
For professionals like Virat Kohli and countless other athletes and students, chewing gum is more than a habit—it's a scientifically-supported strategy to manage pressure, sharpen focus, and maintain peak performance when it matters most.
