What is True Gum Made Of?
True Gum is distinguished by its use of natural, plant-based ingredients instead of the synthetic ones found in most chewing gums. The main components are sourced to be sustainable and biodegradable, making them a healthier choice for both consumers and the planet.
The Natural Ingredients at a Glance
- Chicle Gum Base: Instead of a synthetic rubber base, True Gum uses chicle, a tree sap sourced from the sapodilla tree in Central America. This natural ingredient is what makes the gum biodegradable and plastic-free. The harvesting process also supports local communities.
- Natural Sweeteners: True Gum is sugar-free and uses plant-based sweeteners like xylitol and steviol glycosides (stevia). Xylitol is a sugar alcohol known for its dental benefits, as it can reduce cavity-causing bacteria.
- Natural Flavors: The flavors are derived from real, natural sources, such as mint, ginger, and turmeric, avoiding the artificial flavors and additives common in conventional gum.
- Other Plant-Based Additives: Ingredients like vegetable glycerin (a humectant), gum arabic (a stabilizer), and carnauba wax (a glazing agent) are all naturally sourced.
True Gum vs. Conventional Gum: A Health Comparison
True Gum's formulation presents several key differences when compared to standard chewing gums. The table below highlights some of the most significant points of contrast.
| Feature | True Gum | Conventional Gum |
|---|---|---|
| Gum Base | Natural, biodegradable chicle tree sap | Synthetic, plastic-based materials (e.g., polyvinyl acetate, petroleum wax) |
| Sweeteners | Plant-based xylitol and stevia | Artificial sweeteners like aspartame, plus sugar or high-fructose corn syrup |
| Plastic Content | 100% plastic-free | Contains synthetic plastics |
| Additives | Natural colors and flavors | Artificial colors (e.g., Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5), flavors, and preservatives (e.g., BHT) |
| Biodegradability | Fully biodegradable | Non-biodegradable, contributing to plastic pollution |
| Oral Health Impact | Supports dental health with xylitol, increasing saliva flow | Sugar-based gums feed bacteria, causing tooth decay; some sugar-free gums use less beneficial sweeteners |
Oral Health Benefits of True Gum
Chewing gum, particularly sugar-free varieties, offers several benefits for oral hygiene, and True Gum is no exception. Its use of xylitol provides a significant advantage.
- Increased Saliva Production: Chewing any sugar-free gum stimulates saliva flow, which helps neutralize mouth acids, wash away food particles and bacteria, and remineralize tooth enamel.
- Reduces Cavity-Causing Bacteria: Xylitol is unique because oral bacteria cannot ferment it. Studies have shown that xylitol-sweetened gum can significantly reduce the amount of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Freshens Breath Naturally: The increase in saliva and natural mint or fruit flavors help combat bad breath without relying on artificial chemicals.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
While generally a healthier choice, True Gum isn't without its considerations. It is important to be aware of a few factors before making it a regular part of your routine.
- Laxative Effect: The sweeteners xylitol and steviol glycosides can have a laxative effect if consumed in excess. This varies by individual sensitivity and warrants mindful consumption.
- Variable Texture: Some user reviews note that the natural gum base can have a different texture than conventional gum, sometimes becoming sticky or hardening faster. This is a trade-off for its plastic-free nature.
- Flavor Longevity: A common piece of feedback is that the natural flavors, while pleasant, do not last as long as the artificial ones in mainstream gums.
- Cost: Natural and sustainable ingredients often lead to a higher price point compared to mass-produced, conventional gum.
Is True Gum Healthy for You? The Verdict
In summary, True Gum represents a significantly healthier and more sustainable alternative to most chewing gums on the market. Its commitment to plastic-free, natural, and plant-based ingredients means you avoid potentially harmful synthetic chemicals, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives like BHT and titanium dioxide.
The health benefits, particularly for oral hygiene, are notable due to its xylitol content. By stimulating saliva and actively combating cavity-causing bacteria, it contributes positively to your dental health. The primary trade-offs are a shorter-lasting flavor and a potentially different texture, which are common characteristics of natural gum bases like chicle. Ultimately, whether True Gum is the right choice for you depends on your priorities. If you are seeking a truly clean, natural, and environmentally friendly chewing gum, the occasional stickiness or quicker flavor fade is a small price to pay for a product free of synthetic plastic and chemicals. For the average consumer looking to minimize exposure to artificial additives, True Gum is an excellent option for a guilt-free chew.
Conclusion
Given the synthetic nature of most conventional gum, True Gum stands out as a healthy, natural, and eco-friendly choice. It replaces plastic with biodegradable chicle and artificial ingredients with plant-based sweeteners and flavors. While minor consumer feedback points to textural differences and flavor longevity, these are largely expected outcomes of using natural ingredients. The dental benefits of xylitol and the avoidance of questionable additives make it a superior option for those prioritizing their health and the environment. Therefore, for most individuals, True Gum is healthy when consumed in moderation. For more information on the health implications of various chewing gum ingredients, refer to credible sources like the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
