// 845.371.2222 BHT Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant added to many processed foods, including gum, to keep oils from going rancid and to extend shelf life. But just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s harmless. Animal studies have linked high doses of BHT to illness, and while human studies aren’t conclusive, it’s enough to raise a red flag for me. There’s also concern that BHT may act as an endocrine disruptor, potentially interfering with our hormone balance. What’s even more telling is that it’s banned or restricted in countries like Japan and across parts of Europe. Although it’s still allowed in the U.S., like many other ingredients that are banned in Europe, it’s one I personally choose to steer clear of whenever I can. Titanium Dioxide Titanium dioxide is often added to gum to give it that super bright, clean look but once I learned what it actually is, I knew it was something I didn’t want to be chewing. It’s the same whitening agent used in things like paint and sunscreen, which already feels off when you think about it being in food. It’s also been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a possible carcinogen when inhaled, and while that mainly refers to airborne particles, it still raises concerns. What really gets me, though, is the use of titanium dioxide in its nanoparticle form. There’s evidence that it can pass through the gut lining and build up in the body, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. The EU actually banned it in food back in 2022 because of all the uncertainty around its safety. It’s still allowed in the U.S., but personally, it’s an ingredient I steer clear of as well, especially when it’s showing up in something as unnecessary as gum. Ace-K Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) is a zero-calorie artificial sweetener that’s often used in gum to boost sweetness, usually alongside something like aspartame to balance out the flavor. Even though it’s FDA-approved, I still have concerns. There’s also the concern how artificial sweeteners like Ace-K affect gut health and metabolism by altering the microbiome or impacting insulin response. Artificial Food Dyes & Additives Artificial food dyes and additives, like Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 5, are added to gum to give it that bright, fun look and smooth texture. These dyes have been linked to hyperactivity and attention issues in kids, and I’ve seen major shifts in my clients just from cutting them out. They can also trigger allergic-like reactions in people who are sensitive. What really gets me is that a lot of these artificial colors are banned or restricted in other countries, but still allowed here in the U.S. That alone makes me question their safety. Personally, if I see a long list of chemical colors on the label, it’s an easy pass for me. Aspartame Aspartame is a low-calorie artificial sweetener that’s about 200 times sweeter than sugar, which is why it shows up in so many sugar-free gums and “diet” products. Some people report symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and mood swings after consuming aspartame, and even though reactions vary, I’ve seen it be a trigger for my clients. It’s especially dangerous for anyone with PKU, a rare genetic disorder, since aspartame contains phenylalanine, which they can’t properly break down. And then there’s the ongoing debate about its connection to cancer. Some studies raise questions, while regulators insist it’s safe in moderation. Still, with so much controversy and so many cleaner options out there, I just don’t see the need to take the risk. I actually wrote a full article diving deeper into artificial sweeteners if you’re curious to learn more about how they affect the body. Refined Sugar Refined sugar is often used in regular (non-sugar-free) gum to give it that sweet taste, but it’s not something I’m a fan of, especially when it comes to oral and metabolic health. Sugar feeds the bad bacteria in our mouths, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and overall inflammation. And while one piece of gum doesn’t seem like a big deal, it can add up if you’re chewing multiple sticks throughout the day. Over time, that extra sugar intake can contribute to blood sugar imbalances, insulin resistance, and even increase the risk for conditions like type 2 diabetes. 175
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