Chewing Convenience
June 6, 2019
Claimed by Trident and anxiety ridden test-takers alike, it is theorized gum improves concentration.
Multiple tests have proven this to be true, including one reported by the dental company Colgate. Their study was conducted at a research lab at Cardiff University with 38 participants. It included tests of focus, mood, reaction time and attentiveness through spoken repetition of random numbers. Three of the four factors–excluding mood–were affected positively by chewing gum. The chewing participants were not only able to relay the information quicker, but they were able to stay interested for a longer period than non-chewers. Based on their study, Colgate recommends the use of sugarless gum during tests to increase chances of success.
To achieve maximum effectiveness, it must be determined which flavor is the best? It has been claimed that spearmint is the most beneficial flavor for concentration. This has been proven true by a study done by independent researcher Miranda Anne. Additionally, Anne uncovered through a series of gum-influenced tests that cinnamon holds an effect similar to spearmint. They were followed in lesser part by berry flavored gums. The subjects given spearmint and cinnamon flavors completed the supplied test with greater speed and accuracy than those without.
To optimize even further, one must deduce the longest lasting brand to reap the full benefits of gum. According to an experiment done by Thrillist.com, Eclipse Spearmint had the longest lasting taste at six minutes and 33 seconds. It proceeded long lasting flavors 5 React 2 Mint (six minutes and five seconds) and Dentyne Ice Peppermint (five minutes 35 seconds).
One downfall of Eclipse Spearmint is the explosive punch it packs at first bite. While it calms later, this explosion of mint may hinder academic performance at first.
Armed with anxiety, two hours of studying, and their trusty 75 packs of gum, students gather to put their shaky hands to final exams. The question being, will 75 packs be sufficient? Or did they pack an Eclipse Spearmint Car Pack for maximum success?
