Researchers at King's College London announced on June 18 that chewing sugary gum after consuming nitrate-rich vegetables such as beetroot, spinach, and kale may temporarily enhance the blood pressure-lowering benefits of these foods. The study explored how the conversion of dietary nitrate into nitrite by oral bacteria—a process necessary for cardiovascular benefits—could be improved by increasing mouth acidity.
To test this, healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to chew either sugar-containing (Hubba Bubba bubble) or sugar-free (Wrigley's Extra) gum for three to six hours after drinking beetroot juice. Blood and saliva samples were collected throughout the experiment, along with blood pressure measurements. Each participant repeated the trial with both types of gum at least a week apart.
Results showed that chewing Hubba Bubba increased saliva acidity by a pH decrease of 1.4 compared to sugar-free gum. Participants had a 45% higher amount of nitrite in their mouths and a 25% higher level in their bodies when chewing sugary gum versus sugar-free alternatives. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures dropped by almost 3/2 mmHg during the period when sugary gum was chewed.
The researchers emphasized that this is not intended as a therapeutic approach for managing high blood pressure but noted possible implications for athletes using beetroot supplements to improve performance. Dr. Webb said, "The effects were only short-term, lasting several hours, and long-term use of sugar-containing products would not be recommended for dental health. Nonetheless, the classic culinary tradition of following a starter and a main course, especially if they contain nitrate-rich salad leaves and vegetables, with a sweet dessert – which could be fruit – may temporarily increase blood pressure-lowering and exercise enhancement." Webb also suggested that "sugary chewing gum will have a greater effect compared to drinking sugary drinks, as it stays in the mouth for a longer period of time."
Co-author Dr. Charlotte Mills from University of Reading said, "The bacteria that live in our mouths play a critical role in converting nitrate from foods such as beetroot into beneficial compounds that help relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure... Our findings provide proof of concept that we may be able to improve how the body processes dietary nitrate." Mills added, "We are certainly not suggesting that people should start chewing sugary gum regularly... Instead... future research should focus on developing tooth-friendly, metabolically sound approaches." She concluded, "If we can enhance nitrate conversion, we may be able to improve the physiological benefits that athletes obtain from nitrate-rich foods."
The scientists plan further studies focusing on sports people to investigate links between sugary chewing gum use, blood pressure changes, and athletic performance.
