A study conducted by researchers at the Baylor College of Medicine and sponsored by (unsurprisingly) the Wrigley Science Institute has shown that gum chewing apparently improves math scores.

One of the cornerstones of the Swedish drugstore monopoly can now be sold in ordinary stores. Nicotine replacements, such as chewing gum, can now be sold in stores and supermarkets in Sweden as of Saturday.

In an article recently recommended by Bradley Kropp of Faculty of 1000 Medicine, researchers find chewing gum is a simple solution to the recovery of bowel function after gastrointestinal surgery – a problem that has troubled patients and physicians for decades.

In this week’s BMJ, doctors warn of excess sorbitol intake, a widely used sweetener in “sugar-free” products such as chewing gum and sweets.

A research study to be presented at the 2007 Annual Scientific Meeting of The Obesity Society, found that chewing gum before an afternoon snack helped reduce hunger, diminish cravings and promote fullness among individuals who limit their overall calorie intake. Calorie intake from snacks was significantly reduced by 25 calories.

Easy-to-remove chewing gum is to become a reality, thanks to a major technological break-through. The announcement will be made this week at the BA Festival of Science in York.