Chewing gum can enhance the cardiovascular benefits of vegetables

The researchers hypothesized that the acidity of saliva might affect the rate at which nitrates are converted to nitrites. To test this hypothesis, they examined whether chewing sugar-sweetened gum (which increases acidity and lowers the pH in the mouth) enhances this chemical process.

The study involved healthy volunteers. On different days, they either chewed sugar-sweetened gum (Hubba Bubba) or sugar-free gum (Wrigley’s Extra) for 3 to 6 hours after consuming a serving of beetroot juice. The participants provided saliva and blood samples and had their blood pressure measured.
The results showed that when chewing sugar-containing gum, the acidity of the saliva increased (the pH decreased by 1.4 units). In this case, the amount of nitrites in the oral cavity was 45% higher, and the level of nitrites in the body was 25% higher compared to chewing sugar-free gum. There was also a decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (approximately 3/2 mmHg).

However, the authors emphasize that chewing sugar-filled gum is not a recommended method for controlling blood pressure. The effect is short-lived (lasting only a few hours), and frequent consumption of sugar can damage teeth and negatively impact metabolism.

The key role in the conversion of nitrates is played by oral bacteria, which facilitate the transformation of these compounds into a beneficial form. According to Dr. Charlotte Mills, a co-author of the study from the University of Reading, sugar may create a more favorable environment for this process. However, the goal of the work is not to promote sweets, but to prove the principle that it is possible to increase the efficiency of the absorption of food nitrates. In the future, it will be necessary to find ways to achieve the same effect that are safe for teeth and metabolism.

The results are particularly interesting for sports. Nitrates are already used as an additive to increase endurance, and increasing their conversion to nitrites can increase the benefits of nitrate-containing foods. The researchers plan to conduct a larger study on athletes to further investigate the relationship between the absorption of nitrates, blood pressure, and physical performance.

Dr. Andrew Webb from King’s College London pointed out another nuance: chewing gum works longer than drinking sweet drinks, as it maintains the necessary conditions in the oral cavity for a longer period. He also reminded us of the traditional meal pattern, where a main course with nitrate-rich vegetables is followed by a sweet dessert (such as fruit). This sequence can temporarily enhance the vasodilating and physical activity-supporting effects.