A Natural Alternative: The Shift from Plastic to Chicle
For decades, conventional chewing gum has relied on a synthetic "gum base," a proprietary mix of ingredients that can include synthetic plastics and other chemicals. When Simply Gum entered the market, it did so with a promise to change this, using natural chicle tree sap as its base. This shift addresses concerns about chewing on petroleum-based products and provides a more natural, biodegradable alternative. The simple, transparent ingredient list is a core tenet of the company's ethos, avoiding artificial additives, flavors, and preservatives often found in mass-market gums. However, the health benefits depend heavily on which Simply Gum variety you choose.
Classic Simply Gum: Weighing the Impact of Sugar
Simply Gum offers a classic line of gums that are sweetened with organic raw cane sugar. Each piece of classic Simply Gum contains approximately 1 gram of sugar. While this is a small amount, any gum containing sugar has dental health implications. Harmful oral bacteria feed on sugar, producing acid that can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. For individuals concerned about sugar intake or dental decay, the classic line may not be the healthiest choice, despite its natural and plastic-free base. The healthfulness of any food, even one with simple ingredients, is determined by its overall nutritional impact and its effect on the body.
Classic Simply Gum Ingredients (Mint Flavor)
- Organic Raw Cane Sugar
- Chicle Base (chicle, candelilla wax, citric acid)
- Spearmint Oil
- Organic Vegetable Glycerin
- Organic Rice Flour
Sugar-Free Simply Gum: The Xylitol Advantage
For those looking for a healthier, tooth-friendly option, Simply Gum also offers a sugar-free line sweetened with plant-based xylitol. This is where Simply Gum's health benefits truly shine, especially for oral hygiene. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that does not feed the decay-causing bacteria in the mouth. In fact, studies show that xylitol can inhibit the growth of bacteria like S. mutans, reducing the formation of plaque. When you chew gum, particularly sugar-free varieties, it stimulates saliva production up to 10 to 12 times the normal rate. This increased saliva flow helps to:
- Neutralize acids in the mouth, protecting tooth enamel.
- Wash away food particles and debris.
- Aid in the remineralization of tooth enamel.
It's important to note that excessive consumption of xylitol can cause digestive discomfort, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, in some people. Additionally, while safe for humans, xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs and should be kept far out of their reach.
Comparison Table: Simply Gum vs. Traditional Gum
| Feature | Classic Simply Gum | Sugar-Free Simply Gum | Traditional Gum (e.g., Orbit) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gum Base | Natural chicle tree sap | Natural chicle tree sap | Synthetic plastic base |
| Primary Sweetener | Organic raw cane sugar | Plant-based xylitol | Aspartame, sorbitol, other artificial sweeteners |
| Dental Impact | Can contribute to tooth decay due to sugar | Dental benefits (neutralizes acid, inhibits bacteria) | Depends on type; sugar-free is beneficial, sugary is not |
| Artificial Additives | Free from artificial flavors, colors, preservatives | Free from artificial flavors, colors, preservatives | Often contains artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives |
| Biodegradable | Yes | Yes | No |
Beyond Ingredients: Other Health Benefits and Cautions
The act of chewing gum itself, regardless of the brand, can offer some physiological benefits. Chewing gum has been linked to improved concentration, stress relief, and potentially aiding digestion by stimulating gastric secretions. However, excessive gum chewing can also lead to jaw fatigue, and for some individuals with conditions like Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder, it is not recommended. It is crucial to remember that chewing sugar-free gum is not a substitute for proper oral hygiene, which includes regular brushing and flossing.
Conclusion: A Healthier Choice with a Caveat
So, is Simply Gum healthy? The answer is nuanced. Compared to traditional gums containing synthetic plastic bases and artificial additives, Simply Gum is a demonstrably healthier alternative. The sugar-free line, specifically, offers significant dental health benefits thanks to its use of xylitol. The classic, cane-sugar-sweetened gum, while still free of synthetic plastics, is less beneficial for oral health due to its sugar content.
Ultimately, the 'health' of Simply Gum is a function of its specific variety and how you use it. For a truly healthy choice that supports oral hygiene, the sugar-free xylitol options are best. For all varieties, moderation is key to avoid potential side effects like jaw pain or digestive issues. For the most complete oral health, remember that chewing gum should be a supplement to, not a replacement for, your daily brushing and flossing routine. The American Dental Association recommends chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after meals to help prevent tooth decay..
