Women Who Eat Faster More Likely to be Obese

A new research has found that Middle-aged women who are quick in downing their meals are much more likely to be overweight or obese than women who eat slower.

Otago University researchers analyzed the relationship between self-reported speed of eating and body mass index (BMI) in more than 1,500 New Zealand women aged 40 to 50, an age group known to be at high risk of weight gain.

Study principal investigator Dr Caroline Horwath said that after adjusting for factors such as age, ethnicity, smoking, physical activity and menopause status, the researchers found that the faster women reported eating, the higher their BMI, reported English.news.cn.

The study by the university's department of human nutrition could lead to new and more successful methods of treating obesity, the researchers say.

Benefits of chewing Sugarless Gum

Bacteria that contribute to dental plaque desire for sugar. These bacteria produce plaque acids that aid in tooth decay by breaking down tooth enamel.

Chewing sugarless gum, however, can help promote a healthier mouth, the American Dental Association says. The ADA mentions these possible benefits of chewing sugarless gum:

•   Chewing helps increase the production of saliva, which can help wash away acids that can damage teeth.
•   Increased saliva includes more calcium and phosphate, which can help strengthen tooth enamel.
•   Sugarless gum contains sweeteners -- such as aspartame, sorbitol or mannitol -- that don't contribute to cavities.