Chewing gum side effect - Ask the experts: answers to your questions from the leaders in natural medicine - Brief Article

Natural Health, Oct-Nov, 2002

The gum I chew has a warning about phenylalanine on it. Is it dangerous to chew about five pieces of this gum a day?

CAROLYN DEAN, M.D., N.D., RESPONDS: Experts disagree, but I wouldn't recommend chewing this gum. Phenylalanine, a common ingredient in sugarless gum and other sugar-free foods, is an amino acid and component of the artificial sweetener known as aspartame, or NutraSweet. The warning you mention is directed at people with phenylketonuria (PKU), a disease that prevents metabolization of phenylalanine. If too much phenylalanine builds up in the bloodstream of someone with PKU, that person may have brain problems and seizures. Not enough research has been done to determine whether healthy people are affected by phenylalanine.

You may have noticed bottles of phenylalanine at your natural food store. Phenylalanine is a precursor to two major neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine. Some studies suggest that high doses (500 to 1,500 mg) of supplemental phenylalanine alter these brain chemicals in a way that relieves depression. However, the benefits of phenylalanine are poorly understood. Because of its possible side effects, I would err on the side of caution and avoid it.

I'm more concerned about the effects that other ingredients in aspartame have on your health. While some studies have found aspartame safe, others link it to headaches and fibromyalgia, as well as to other health problems. Some neurosurgeons believe that the sweetener disrupts your brain function by overstimulating your neurons.

I personally don't advise daily consumption of aspartame or phenylalanine in any amount. Instead of gum, try chewing on a whole clove or tea-tree-flavored toothpick. These options freshen your breath naturally and will help fight bacteria in your mouth.