Chewing gum is a common habit used for fresh breath, to curb cravings, or as a quick distraction, but concerns about its safety often arise during pregnancy. For most individuals, especially those who choose sugar-free options, standard chewing gum is generally considered safe. The primary concerns involve the chemical safety of artificial sweeteners and potential physiological side effects that can be exacerbated by the physical changes of pregnancy. Understanding both the ingredients and the act of chewing is important for making an informed choice during this time.
Safety Assessment of Common Gum Ingredients
The main concern regarding standard sugar-free gum centers on the non-nutritive sweeteners used to replace sugar. Major health organizations, like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have deemed common sweeteners such as Aspartame, Sucralose, and Acesulfame K safe for pregnant women when consumed within Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) limits. Aspartame breaks down into components like phenylalanine and aspartic acid at levels considered non-toxic to a developing fetus. However, pregnant individuals with the rare genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU) must strictly avoid Aspartame, as their bodies cannot properly process phenylalanine, which can build up and cause harm.
Sucralose and Acesulfame K are also generally recognized as safe for consumption during pregnancy in moderation. Food colorings and flavorings present in chewing gum are typically used in minute quantities and are already approved food additives. Consuming all sweeteners within moderation remains the general recommendation, but the occasional stick of gum does not typically pose a chemical risk to a healthy pregnancy.
Physical Effects of Chewing Gum During Pregnancy
Beyond the ingredients, the physical act of chewing gum can introduce or worsen certain common pregnancy discomforts. The repetitive chewing motion can lead to increased air swallowing, or aerophagia, which can result in uncomfortable bloating, gas, or flatulence. This effect is often more pronounced during pregnancy as the growing uterus places pressure on the digestive tract.
Chewing also stimulates the production of saliva, signaling the stomach to prepare for food intake by producing stomach acid. This mechanism can sometimes trigger or exacerbate the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or heartburn. Heartburn is already a frequent complaint in pregnancy due to hormonal changes relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter. Some individuals find that chewing can help neutralize acid due to the increased saliva, but for others, it may worsen symptoms.
A less common but possible physical effect is strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting the jawbone to the skull. Pregnancy hormones, particularly relaxin, can increase joint laxity throughout the body, making the jaw more susceptible to strain from continuous, vigorous chewing. Persistent jaw pain or clicking may be an indication to stop the habit.
Xylitol Gum and Maternal Oral Health
Xylitol, a sugar alcohol often used in gum, has a therapeutic application that can benefit pregnant individuals. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which are the primary cause of dental caries (cavities). These bacteria can be vertically transmitted from the mother to the infant, colonizing the baby’s mouth and increasing their future risk of decay.
Regular use of xylitol gum by the mother can significantly reduce the level of S. mutans in her saliva. This reduction in maternal bacterial load has been shown to lower the rate of colonization in the child, thereby delaying or preventing the onset of early childhood caries. Studies suggest that for this preventative effect, mothers should chew xylitol-sweetened gum two to three times daily. The total daily dosage of xylitol recommended in various studies for this purpose ranges widely, with some suggesting a target intake between 6.44 grams and 10.32 grams per day, typically achieved through multiple pieces of gum.
When Gum is Definitely Not Safe
While most standard chewing gums are safe, specific medicated or specialty gums should be approached with caution or avoided entirely during pregnancy. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) gum, used for smoking cessation, falls into a category that requires medical supervision. Nicotine itself is a chemical that may affect fetal development, but the risks of continued smoking are significantly higher.
If a pregnant individual cannot quit smoking without assistance, NRT gums are generally considered safer than continued cigarette use, as they deliver nicotine without the thousands of other harmful toxins found in smoke. However, NRT gum should only be used under the direction of a healthcare provider, who can determine the lowest effective dose. Similarly, herbal or medicated gums containing high concentrations of essential oils, unknown herbal extracts, or other non-standard ingredients should be avoided due to a lack of safety data during pregnancy.