Tag Archives: memory

Chewing Gum’s Surprising Brain Benefits Come with Caution

In 2026, publications from The Economics Times to National Geographic, have reported on the unexpected benefits of chewing gum. The U.S. government has a long-released study that confirms this.  Nearly 30 years ago, the NIH published a study that found, “[Chewing] increased regional cerebral blood flow in the primary sensorimotor areas by 25-28%, in the supplementary motor areas and insulae by 9-17%, and in the cerebellum and striatum by 8-11%.” (Cerebral blood flow activates the hippocampus, critical for memory, and reduces stress hormones by 16%.) Multiple trials confirm improvements in alertness, sustained attention, and reaction times from chewing gum.

These benefits seem to have been almost forgotten though, as what has been more widely reported in the past decade is the harm that chewing gum causes the body. A study indexed in the NIH database found that chewing commercially available gum can release over 250,000 microplastic particles per hour. Research shows microplastics cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially contributing to oxidative stress and neuroinflammation linked to cognitive decline.

Pertaining to brain injury patients, medical professionals have long known chewing gum may be a boon. The aforementioned statistics note gum’s ability to enhance blood flow and hippocampal stimulation support neural recovery, while stress reduction aids in healing. Gum chewing is used in speech and oral motor rehabilitation therapy, strengthening muscles while stimulating neural pathways, and improving reaction times. Additionally, during these cognitive rehabilitation exercises, gum still retains its ability to reduce stress levels.

To capture benefits while avoiding microplastics and without artificial sweeteners, consider homemade alternatives using natural chicle or beeswax. Many websites offer such recipes, including: Instructables Utopia CookTilYummy. (I do not known the quality or tastiness of these recipes. If you choose to make chewing gum for its cognitive benefits, I recommend using fresh mint as an ingredient because of its own proven cognitive benefits)

Give Your Brain a Gift: Benefit of Creative Activities in Brain Injury Recovery and Beyond

Creative hobbies strengthen brain health in everyone, but they hold particular promise for those recovering from brain injury. Activities like painting, dancing, music, creative writing, pottery, and even certain video games engage multiple brain regions, enhancing memory, coordination, and emotional well-being.

A 2025 study published in Nature Communications, and found in the NIH dababase, examined brain data from over 1,400 participants across 13 countries and found that creative activities can slow brain aging and promote healthier brain function. Lead researcher Dr. Carlos Coronel noted that “these creative experiences help protect brain connections that are vulnerable to accelerated aging.”

Related to brain injury survivors specifically, creative arts therapies show measurable benefits. As President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who suffered significant neurological issues and found solace in creative hobbies during his recovery from polio, declared: “I owe my life to my hobbies.” 2025 research reports in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, in the NIH database, note that there is increasing use of creative arts therapy for addressing traumatic brain injury, from intensive care units to home health. Studies demonstrate positive impacts on daily living activities, motor function, and emotional well-being. In fact, the neurological changes following brain injury may actually enhance artistic capabilities through increased neural plasticity and synapse formation.

Crucially, these benefits extend beyond formal rehabilitation. Continuing creative pursuits long-term helps maintain neural connections in everyone, making it essential for survivors to keep practicing their creative hobbies. The holiday season offers perfect opportunities—crafting decorations, creating handmade gifts, baking festive treats, and arranging seasonal displays all provide therapeutic engagement.