chewing gum/asthma

[laura]

Every time I chew gum my asthma flares up, so frustrating I like gum it's been my treat since quitting smoking but I'm sure I will live without it.

anyone else been affected by this?

[Colleen]

Maybe try another type of gum?  I always chew gum when I do cardio, because it regulates my breathing.  Maybe it's an ingredient that triggers it?

[Frezflops]

Maybe try another type of gum?  I always chew gum when I do cardio, because it regulates my breathing.  Maybe it's an ingredient that triggers it?

Intriguing How does chewing gum regulate your breathing? My only issue with running is my breathing which is why I run with music blaring in my ears because I notice when I can hear myself breathe I focus on it too much then struggle more with it, If chewing gum helps that I might try it.

[Colleen]

Intriguing How does chewing gum regulate your breathing? My only issue with running is my breathing which is why I run with music blaring in my ears because I notice when I can hear myself breathe I focus on it too much then struggle more with it, If chewing gum helps that I might try it.

I'd give it a try for sure.  I cannot find where I read it, but it was shortly after I quit smoking and wanted to exercise with asthma and COPD.  Back then, my breathing was a lot worse.  Maybe chewing at a regular place, makes your breathing more even and helps you to breathe through your nose.  I've been chewing gum while exercising for over a year now and anytime I've forgotten it, my breathing hasn't been great.  

[laura]

That's interesting i wonder why it affects me, it also affects my sisters asthma maybe it's the mint.

[Still winning]

Weird, I always thought mint was good for breathing including asthma, poor you Laura. Have you been going for the same brand, maybe change that or what about bubblegum as a back up for now. 

[laura]

I don't know why it affects me I have Google and a quite a few people have the same problem, shame but I can take it or leave it so at least it won't affect my quit. I just enjoyed the fresh breath lol xx

[JustSomeGuy]

I haven't seen any real study on it, but some people say that aspartame can trigger asthma attacks.  Aspartame is an artificial food sweetener, so that could be true.  It's used most gums...especially low calorie types.  Maybe you're getting a reaction from the aspartame?  There are aspartame-free gum...but they are harder to find (health food stores should have them).  But hey, for fresh breath, maybe it's worth a try? :)