Sugary chewing gum may temporarily enhance beetroot’s blood pressure benefits
Researchers at King’s College London found that chewing sugary gum after eating nitrate-rich vegetables, such as beetroot and spinach, can lower blood pressure. According to a study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, the acidity in sugar-containing gum increases the conversion of nitrate into nitrite, which relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow.
How does sugary gum lower blood pressure?
The process relies on a chemical reaction triggered by bacteria in the mouth. Vegetables like kale and beetroot contain nitrates, which the body can’t use immediately. Bacteria must first convert these nitrates into nitrites. Once converted, nitrites widen blood vessels, reducing the pressure against artery walls.
Dr. Andrew Webb of King’s College London explained that increasing saliva acidity can enhance this reaction. In the study, volunteers chewed Hubba Bubba (sugar-containing) or Wrigley’s Extra (sugar-free) gum after drinking beetroot juice. Those who chewed the sugary gum saw a 1.4 decrease in saliva pH, making the environment more acidic.
What were the specific results of the study?
The data showed a clear difference between the two types of gum. Participants chewing sugary gum had 45% more nitrite in their mouths and 25% higher nitrite levels throughout their bodies compared to the sugar-free group.
This chemical shift led to a measurable drop in blood pressure. Researchers recorded a decrease in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by nearly 3/2 mmHg. While these numbers seem small, they represent a significant physiological change triggered by a simple change in oral pH.
| Metric | Sugary Gum (Hubba Bubba) | Sugar-Free Gum (Wrigley’s Extra) |
|---|---|---|
| Mouth Nitrite Levels | 45% Higher | Baseline |
| Body Nitrite Levels | 25% Higher | Baseline |
| Saliva pH | 1.4 Decrease (More Acidic) | Stable |
Why isn’t sugary gum recommended as a medical treatment?
Despite the blood pressure drop, researchers warn against using sugary gum as a daily therapy. Dr. Charlotte Mills from the University of Reading noted that frequent sugar consumption harms dental health and can damage cardiometabolic health over time.
The study serves as a “proof of concept” rather than a prescription. The goal is to find other ways to lower saliva pH without the risks associated with sugar. Dr. Webb pointed out that sugary drinks aren’t a viable alternative because they don’t stay in the mouth long enough to maximize the nitrate conversion process.
How can athletes use these findings to improve performance?
Nitrate supplements are already common in professional sports to improve endurance and oxygen efficiency. This research suggests that how athletes consume these supplements matters as much as what they consume.
By optimizing the mouth’s environment, athletes might extract more benefit from beetroot shots or nitrate-rich diets. The researchers plan to launch a larger study specifically targeting sports people to see if this pH manipulation translates to better athletic performance and stamina.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just eat more candy to lower my blood pressure?
No. The effect is specific to the interaction between nitrate-rich foods and the acidic environment created by chewing gum. The risks of excess sugar far outweigh the temporary blood pressure drop for the general population.
Which vegetables are best for this effect?
Beetroot, spinach, and kale are the primary sources of dietary nitrate mentioned by the researchers.
Does sugar-free gum work the same way?
No. The study found that sugar-free gum did not lower the pH of the saliva to the same extent, resulting in significantly lower levels of nitrite and less impact on blood pressure.
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