Chewing gum is a popular habit for many people. Whether it’s for fresh breath, stress relief, or just something to do, it’s hard to deny the convenience of having a pack of gum handy. However, not all chewing gum is created equal. While most of us are familiar with regular chewing gum sold in colourful wrappers, there’s a lesser-known, natural alternative that offers more than just a minty taste—mastic gum. This ancient resin offers a range of health benefits that far surpass what regular chewing gum can offer. Here’s why mastic gum is a better choice than regular chewing gum.
What is Mastic Gum?
Mastic gum comes from the resin of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), which is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly the Greek island of Chios. For centuries, this natural gum has been used for its medicinal properties, ranging from improving digestion to oral health. Unlike regular chewing gum, which is filled with synthetic ingredients, artificial sweeteners, and chemicals, mastic gum is completely natural, and has been harvested in a traditional, eco-friendly way for thousands of years.
Natural Ingredients vs. Synthetic Additives
One of the biggest differences between mastic gum and regular chewing gum is the ingredients. Regular chewing gum is often loaded with synthetic additives like artificial sweeteners (aspartame, sorbitol), artificial flavors, and colorings that can be harmful in large quantities or for people with sensitivities. Mastic gum, on the other hand, is 100% natural. It contains no preservatives, synthetic chemicals, or added sugar, making it a purer, healthier choice.
When you chew mastic gum, you're consuming a resin directly from nature, with no hidden ingredients to worry about. For anyone trying to avoid artificial additives or chemical-laden products, this is a huge plus.
Promotes Digestive Health
Mastic gum has been traditionally used for improving digestive issues and is even recognized for its medicinal properties. Research suggests that mastic gum may help reduce symptoms of indigestion, stomach discomfort, and even ulcers. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can support overall gut health by reducing harmful bacteria like Helicobacter pylori, which is linked to stomach ulcers.
Regular chewing gum, on the other hand, doesn’t offer these benefits. In fact, for some people, the sugar alcohols found in sugar-free gums can cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, or diarrhea when consumed in excess. So, if you’re looking for a gum that’s actually good for your gut, mastic gum is a far better choice.
Superior Oral Health Benefits
While both regular chewing gum and mastic gum can promote saliva production, which is beneficial for oral health, mastic gum has unique properties that make it superior for maintaining a healthy mouth. Studies have shown that mastic gum can actively reduce plaque buildup and fight harmful bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to cavities, bad breath, and gum disease. It’s even been used historically as a natural breath freshener and tooth cleaner.
Regular chewing gum, especially the sugary varieties, can actually contribute to tooth decay. Even sugar-free options often contain artificial sweeteners that aren’t necessarily great for your teeth. Mastic gum not only freshens your breath naturally, but also helps protect your teeth and gums in the long term.
Lasts Longer Without Losing Its Texture
One of the downsides of regular chewing gum is how quickly it loses flavor and texture. After just a few minutes, many gums become tasteless and can harden or become overly sticky. Mastic gum, in contrast, holds up for a much longer period. While it may have a slightly firmer texture to begin with, it doesn’t break down or dissolve in the same way synthetic gums do. It can be chewed for hours without becoming unpleasant, making it a more sustainable option.
Supports Overall Wellness
Mastic gum doesn’t just benefit your mouth and gut—it can also contribute to overall wellness. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can support immune function and may even play a role in managing conditions like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Some research also suggests that mastic gum may help in the healing of wounds and offer benefits to skin health due to its antimicrobial effects.
On the other hand, regular chewing gum offers no such benefits. While it can help temporarily freshen your breath or relieve dry mouth, it doesn’t provide any of the wellness-boosting properties that mastic gum offers.
Traditional Wisdom Meets Modern Science
One of the most appealing aspects of mastic gum is its rich history. It has been chewed and used in traditional medicine for over 2,500 years. Ancient Greeks and Romans prized it for its therapeutic properties, and it’s still widely used in traditional Mediterranean diets and natural remedies today. This historical use is backed up by modern research, which continues to uncover the many health benefits of mastic gum.
Regular chewing gum, in contrast, is a relatively modern invention that’s primarily driven by commercial interests. While it may offer momentary benefits like fresh breath, it doesn’t have the same cultural, medicinal, or health significance as mastic gum.
Mastic Gum, the Natural Superior Choice
When comparing mastic gum to regular chewing gum, it’s clear that mastic gum offers far more health benefits and natural advantages. From promoting better oral and digestive health to its long-lasting chewability and natural composition, mastic gum stands out as a superior alternative. If you’re looking to reduce your intake of synthetic additives, support your overall wellness, and enjoy a gum that’s rooted in thousands of years of tradition, mastic gum is the way to go.
Next time you’re reaching for a piece of chewing gum, consider making the switch to mastic gum. It’s a small change with big benefits that your body will thank you for.
