If you're like me, you might've found yourself Googling "can I chew gum while fasting?" at some point during your intermittent fasting journey. After all, chewing gum is such a small act—how could it possibly break your fast? Surely there must be some wiggle room when it comes to chewing gum and fasting...right?
The answer, unfortunately, is no. When you're fasting, you're supposed to abstain from all food and drink— including gum. However, I'm not here to tell you what you can and can't do. I'm simply here to present the facts so that you can make an informed decision for yourself.
Let's start with what experts have to say on the matter. Dr. Amy Shah, Double Board Certified MD, says that chewing gum while fasting can actually stall weight loss and cause digestive issues. She explains that when you chew gum, your body produces more saliva—and this extra saliva can lead to bloating and indigestion. In other words, if you want to avoid digestive issues while fasting, it's best to steer clear of gum altogether.
But what about those pesky hunger pangs? Surely chewing gum can help stave off hunger while fasting...right? Unfortunately, this isn't the case either. Dr. Brad Pilon, author of EAT STOP EAT, says that chewing gum can actually make hunger pangs worse. He explains that when we chew gum, our brains think we're eating—and this tricks our bodies into releasing insulin in anticipation of food.5 Insulin is a fat-storing hormone, so if you're trying to lose weight or burn fat while intermittent fasting, releasing insulin is the last thing you want to do.
So which side is right? Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer. It really comes down to a matter of personal opinion and interpretation. Personally, I err on the side of caution and avoid chewing gum while fasting, but ultimately the decision is up to you.
Conclusion:
At the end of the day, it's up to you whether or not you want to chew gum while fasting. However, if you're looking for expert opinions on the matter, most experts will tell you to avoid it altogether. Chewing gum can stall weight loss, cause digestive issues, and make hunger pangs worse—all of which are counterproductive if you're trying to achieve your intermittent fasting goals.
EAT STOP EAT is more than just a weight loss program - it's a lifestyle change that can help you finally reach your fitness goals. Whether you're looking to lose weight, gain muscle, or simply improve your overall health, EAT STOP EAT can help you achieve your goals. The program is based on the simple premise of intermittent fasting: by eating small meals and snacks throughout the day, you can train your body to better utilize its natural stores of energy, leading to improved health and fitness. With EAT STOP EAT, you'll learn how to eat healthy, exercise effectively, and make lasting changes to your lifestyle.
