Chewing Gum During Pregnancy: Is It Safe?

Chewing gum is a common habit, but is it safe for pregnant women? On the one hand, gum can help curb food cravings, avert nausea, and provide relief from acid reflux. On the other hand, artificial sweeteners and flavours in gum can cause dental issues, bloating, and even harm the fetus. So, is it safe to chew gum during pregnancy?

Is it safe to chew gum during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a time when women become more cautious about what they eat and drink. Chewing gum is no exception, and it's a question many expectant mothers ask. While it may be generally safe to chew gum during pregnancy, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, it's important to understand that chewing gum is not a natural food item. It contains various artificial flavours, colours, and chemical sweeteners or even corn syrup. While an occasional piece of gum is unlikely to cause harm, it's always a good idea to check with your doctor first. They can advise you on the best and safest options for you and your baby.

Some of the potential benefits of chewing gum during pregnancy include curbing food cravings and helping to control weight, as well as reducing nausea and morning sickness, which are common during this time. Gum can also increase saliva production, which can help neutralise stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn or acid reflux.

However, there are also some negative effects to be aware of. The artificial sweeteners and flavours in gum can cause dental issues and irritation. Sorbitol, a common sweetener in gum, can cause bloating and even affect the foetus's growth. Sucralose, another sweetener, has been linked to adverse effects related to diabetes. Chewing gum regularly can also weaken the cartilage muscles in the mouth, leading to jaw pain. For mothers with phenylketonuria (PKU), aspartame, another common sweetener, can directly affect the foetus.

Nicotine gum, used by some pregnant women to quit smoking, is not a healthy choice either. Nicotine is highly addictive, and if it reaches the baby's blood, it can lead to cardiovascular problems later in life.

To summarise, while chewing gum during pregnancy is generally considered safe, it's always best to consult your doctor first. Avoid gum with artificial sweeteners, especially if you have certain medical conditions like gestational diabetes, insulin resistance, or diabetes mellitus. Opt for gums with natural sweeteners like xylitol, stevia, or sucralose, but even these should be consumed in moderation. Remember to practise good dental hygiene and avoid excessive gum chewing to prevent jaw pain and dental issues.

What are the benefits of chewing gum while pregnant?

Chewing gum while pregnant has been linked to several benefits, including a reduced risk of premature birth and improved oral health. Here are some of the key advantages outlined in various studies:

Reduced Risk of Premature Birth:

A large-scale study conducted in Malawi, a country with one of the highest rates of premature births, found that chewing sugar-free gum twice a day during pregnancy was associated with a lower rate of premature births. The preterm birth rate was 13% among gum-chewers, compared to 17% in the group that did not chew gum. This equates to a 25% decrease in the incidence of preterm births. The study suggested that the reduction in preterm births was due to improved oral health, as gum disease has been previously linked to higher rates of preterm deliveries.

Improved Oral Health:

The act of chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralise harmful acids in the teeth released by plaque. Xylitol, a common sweetener in sugar-free gum, has been found to reduce levels of harmful mouth bacteria and improve oral health. This not only benefits the mother's dental health but may also help prevent the transmission of cavity-causing bacteria to the infant through oral contact.

Nausea Relief:

Chewing gum can help reduce morning sickness and nausea, which are common during pregnancy. Gum often contains stevia, which is linked to reducing feelings of sickness. The act of chewing, combined with the taste and smell of the gum, can provide relief and help normalise the body's response.

Heartburn Relief:

Chewing gum can aid in alleviating heartburn during pregnancy. Increased saliva production from chewing gum can help neutralise stomach acid and reduce the symptoms of heartburn.

Weight Management:

For pregnant women on a diet to control their weight, chewing gum can help curb food cravings. The act of chewing simulates food intake and can reduce cravings for a period of time.

While these benefits exist, it is important to note that chewing gum during pregnancy should be done in moderation and with caution. Some artificial sweeteners and chemicals in gum may have potential side effects or interactions with certain medical conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating chewing gum into your routine during pregnancy.

What are the negative effects of chewing gum during pregnancy?

Chewing gum during pregnancy has several potential negative effects, and it is generally recommended to consult a doctor before consuming it. Firstly, artificial sweeteners commonly found in chewing gum, such as sorbitol, can cause bloating and gut inflammation. This may hinder the normal growth and development of the foetus. Additionally, some chewing gums contain sucralose, which has been linked to adverse diabetic effects. Regular chewing of gum can also wear down the cartilage that cushions the jaw, leading to pain and discomfort during pregnancy.

For mothers with phenylketonuria (PKU), chewing gums containing aspartame can be harmful to the foetus. Similarly, nicotine gum, often used as a smoking cessation aid, can be harmful to the developing baby. The addictive substances in nicotine gum can reach the baby's blood and potentially cause cardiological problems later in life. It is important to note that while nicotine gum is considered safer than smoking during pregnancy, it should only be used under medical supervision.

Furthermore, the act of chewing gum can lead to excessive air swallowing, resulting in gas and bloating. This is particularly true for sugar-free gum. Additionally, some people believe that chewing gum can trigger migraines and tension headaches, making it advisable for those prone to these conditions to avoid it altogether.

What are the precautions to be taken while chewing gum during pregnancy?

While chewing gum during pregnancy is generally considered safe, there are some precautions to be taken to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby. Here are some important guidelines to follow:

• Consult your doctor: Before consuming any type of chewing gum during pregnancy, it is crucial to seek advice from your doctor or healthcare provider. They can guide you on whether it is safe for you to chew gum and recommend specific brands or types to choose or avoid.
• Check the ingredients: Carefully read the labels of chewing gums and avoid those that contain additives and sweeteners that may be harmful during pregnancy. Avoid artificial sweeteners, particularly saccharin and cyclamate, which may be harmful during pregnancy. Look for gums with sweeteners like xylitol, stevia, or aspartame, which are generally considered safe.
• Avoid excessive consumption: Chew gum in moderation. Excessive chewing and swallowing of gum can lead to an increased intake of air, resulting in gas, bloating, and intestinal issues. It is also important not to swallow a large quantity of gum at once, as it may cause a blockage in the digestive system.
• Maintain dental hygiene: Practice good dental hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Chewing gum can contribute to dental issues, and pregnant women are already more susceptible to dental problems.
• Avoid certain flavours: Stay away from chewing gums with menthol or mint flavours. These flavours can stimulate the stomach to produce excessive digestive juices, which may be undesirable during pregnancy.
• Be cautious with nicotine gums: If you are using nicotine gum to quit smoking, consult your doctor first. Nicotine gums should be avoided if you have a history of liver, heart, or kidney problems. Additionally, keep nicotine consumption to a minimum, as it can affect the baby's health.
• Stop chewing gum towards the end of pregnancy: It is recommended to stop chewing gum approximately one month before the due date to ensure the best health for both mother and baby.

While chewing gum can have benefits during pregnancy, such as curbing food cravings and alleviating nausea and heartburn, it is important to follow these precautions to ensure a healthy and safe experience for both you and your baby.

What are the best and worst gums to chew during pregnancy?

Chewing gum is generally safe during pregnancy, but there are some types of gum that are better avoided. It is important to check the ingredients and consult a doctor before consuming any gum while pregnant.

Best gums to chew during pregnancy

• Gums with xylitol as a constituent: Xylitol is an alcohol-molecule of a sugar that is safe for consumption during pregnancy.
• Gums with aspartame as a sweetener: Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that does not provide any nutrition. It is safe for consumption during pregnancy, except for those with PKU (Phenylketonuria).
• Gums with sucralose as a sweetener: Sucralose is an artificial sweetening agent that contains no calories and does not affect blood sugar levels.
• Gums with stevia as a sweetener: Stevia is linked to reducing the feeling of sickness and can be beneficial in reducing pregnancy nausea.
• Gums with vitamin C: Vitamin C has been used to help with nausea, although results are anecdotal.
• Gums with ginger: Ginger has been shown to be helpful for nausea during pregnancy and has not been shown to be harmful to the fetus.
• Gums with nicotine: Nicotine gum is considered a better alternative to smoking during pregnancy. It delivers short bursts of small amounts of nicotine, which can help lessen cravings. However, it should only be used if you are struggling to give up smoking and under the direction of a doctor.

Worst gums to chew during pregnancy

• Gums with saccharin as a constituent: Saccharin has been deemed safe by food organisations, but it can reach the fetus via the placenta and potentially harm the child's growth.
• Gums with sorbitol: Sorbitol is a sweetener that can induce bloating as it gets absorbed in the gut. It can hinder the normal growth and development of the fetus.
• Gums with artificial sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners can cause dental issues and irritation during pregnancy. They can also affect blood sugar levels and create complications for those with diabetes or insulin resistance.

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