The Calorie Count: Per Piece vs. Per Pack
When examining the calories in Extra chewing gum sugar free strawberry, it's crucial to distinguish between the per-piece and per-pack nutritional information. A single piece of Extra sugar-free gum typically weighs around 2g, and since the energy content per 100g is approximately 168 kcal, this equates to roughly 3.36 calories per piece. For simplicity and due to rounding, this is often stated as 4 or 5 calories per stick by different sources.
While this amount is negligible for most people, the calories can add up for heavy chewers. If you chew multiple sticks throughout the day, the calories, albeit small, can become a consideration for your overall daily intake. However, compared to a piece of regular sugary gum, which can have over twice the calorie count, the sugar-free option is significantly lower.
The Source of Calories: Understanding Sugar Alcohols
The reason Extra chewing gum sugar free strawberry still contains calories is the presence of sugar alcohols, or polyols, which are used as sugar substitutes. Common polyols in Extra gum include xylitol, sorbitol, and mannitol.
Here’s how they contribute to the calorie count:
- Lower Caloric Value: Unlike sugar, which contains 4 calories per gram, sugar alcohols provide fewer calories, typically around 2-3 calories per gram.
- Incomplete Digestion: The human body does not fully absorb polyols, which is why they have a reduced impact on blood sugar and a lower calorie count.
- Taste and Texture: These sweeteners provide the desired sweetness and bulk to the gum, making it satisfying to chew even without traditional sugar.
Health Implications of Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum has several potential health benefits, especially for oral hygiene:
- Increased Saliva Flow: The act of chewing stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize plaque acids, wash away food particles, and strengthen tooth enamel.
- Reduced Cavities: Chewing gum that contains xylitol has been shown to reduce the levels of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Minimal Blood Sugar Impact: For those with diabetes or watching their carbohydrate intake, sugar-free gum has a minimal effect on blood sugar levels and insulin production.
Caution Regarding Polyols It is important to note that excessive consumption of sugar alcohols can have a laxative effect on some individuals. Therefore, enjoying sugar-free gum in moderation is key to avoiding potential digestive discomfort.
Nutritional Comparison: Strawberry vs. Other Extra Flavors
While the strawberry flavor is a popular choice, its nutritional profile is comparable to other Extra sugar-free flavors. The core ingredients and calorie source remain consistent across the sugar-free line. Below is a comparison of nutritional values per 100g for a clearer picture:
| Nutrient (per 100g) | Extra Sugar Free Strawberry | Extra Sugar Free Peppermint | Extra Sugar Free Spearmint |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | 701kJ / 168kcal | 623kJ / 150kcal | 624kJ / 150kcal |
| Carbohydrate | 68g | 62g | 62g |
| - Polyols | 68g | 62g | 62g |
| - Sugars | <0.1g | <0.1g | <0.1g |
| Fat | <0.1g | <0.1g | <0.1g |
| Protein | <0.1g | <0.1g | <0.1g |
As the table shows, the strawberry flavor has a slightly higher energy content per 100g compared to the mint varieties, though the per-piece calorie count remains very low across the board. The primary energy source for all is polyols, not sugars.
Conclusion
In summary, a single piece of Extra chewing gum sugar free strawberry contains a very low number of calories, typically around 4-5. These calories come from sugar alcohols like xylitol and sorbitol, which are used as sugar substitutes and are not fully absorbed by the body. This makes it a great option for those looking to enjoy a sweet taste with minimal caloric impact. The sugar-free formula offers dental health benefits by promoting saliva flow and neutralizing plaque acids, and is suitable for those on diabetic or low-carb diets. While the calories are minimal, excessive consumption should be avoided due to the potential laxative effects of polyols. For more information on the dental benefits of sugar-free gum, refer to studies and guidelines from reputable health organizations.
