Chew Your Way To Exam Success

15-05-2006 10:27

Not just fresh breath - chew to exam success

With exam time upon us, University students will be searching for ways to help them cope with exam stress and improve their ability to remember information. Research indicates that help is at hand in the form of the humble stick of chewing gum.

Not just about breath freshening, studies suggest that the rhythmic action of chewing gum can actually help relieve everyday stresses by getting rid of nervous energy and can help improve focus, concentration and alertness.

Chew the strain away

Studies have shown that chewing gum does more than keep breath fresh and actually stimulates areas of the brain helping potentially to reduce stress levels. Research by Elaine Wilmore, an associate professor at Texas University also suggests that chewing gum may calm down students and help to raise their test scores. Her study on students at a Texas high school found that the mean score for students allowed to chew gum was three points higher compared with those who weren’t. Gum chewing is a small price to pay for reduced test anxiety and a better grade, Wilmore wrote.

Get fresh focus

Research has revealed that chewing gum can improve the memory of healthy individuals. The act of chewing gum can increase blood flow to the brain by up to 25% delivering much needed protein haemoglobin to the grey matter which has been shown to contribute to memory improvements.

Top tips for fighting stress:

Exercising or socializing during study breaks: Use university gym facilities, go for runs with friends or simply go for a walk and chat

Find the right time: Experiment with different times of the day to find the best study time for you.

Create a calming and productive atmosphere: Make sure there is good lighting and ventilation, enough space and the right music.

Healthy body = healthy mind: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and keep your cool while revising, especially during the warmer months.

Chew gum: The gum experts at Wrigley recommend chewing gum to help relieve stress and tension and to help increase focus and concentration during studying and test-taking. An added bonus, it also is a low-calorie substitute for eating unhealthy snacks when stressed