The Skinny on Gum Calories

While it’s true that most of the calories in gum come from sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners, which are not fully digested by the body, that doesn’t mean they don’t count at all. When you chew gum, enzymes in your saliva begin to break down the ingredients, releasing some of the calories. However, because you don’t actually swallow the gum, some of these calories may not be fully absorbed by your body.

The Caloric Impact of Chewing Gum

Studies have shown that the number of calories burned while chewing gum is minimal about 11 calories per hour. This is because the act of chewing gum doesn’t require much energy expenditure. However, if you chew gum throughout the day, those calories can add up over time.

The Bottom Line: Do Gum Calories Count?

While the calories in gum may not have a significant impact on your overall calorie intake, it’s important to be mindful of how much and how often you chew gum. If you’re trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet, it’s best to limit your gum chewing to avoid any potential impact on your calorie consumption.

In conclusion, while the calories in gum may not count as much as those from other sources of food, they do still have an impact on your overall calorie intake. So next time you reach for a stick of gum, remember that even if you don’t swallow it, those calories do matter. It’s all about moderation and being aware of what you’re putting into your body, gum included.