The minty taste alters the taste of healthy and nutritious dishes

Mar 29, 2013 21:41 GMT  ·  By

Most people work on the assumption that chewing gum can help them lose weight, simply because it keeps their mouth busy and therefore makes it difficult for them to snack on various treats.

However, a team of researchers now say that those who chew minty-flavored gum on a fairly regular basis are more likely to gulp down sugary foods once the time comes for them to actually sit down and enjoy a meal.

Sources say that, according to the researchers, this is because a chemical compound found in minty gum alters the taste of healthy and nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables, meaning that it makes them appear less appealing.

“The chemical change is the same reason why when you brush your teeth and then drink orange juice, it tastes bad,” study co-author Christine Swoboda explains.