Friday, November 25, 2011

Really? The Claim: Chewing Gum Can Prevent Ear Infections







Reference: http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/21/really-the-claim-chewing-gum-can-prevent-ear-infections/?ref=science



Summary: Ear infections are one of the most common reasons that parents take their children to the doctors office. Usually the doctor prescribes medicine for the child and the family is on their way. However, in a recent study, Chewing gum has been proven to help this sickness. Gum contains xylitol, a natural form of sugar. Xylitol is known to prevent tooth decay but Scientists have also discovered that it helps prevent the growth of bacteria. Experts performed a study on 3,100 kids at daycare centers and the results were clear. The children with the gum containing xylitol were 25 percent less likely to develop acute ear infections.



Critique: I think this article was totally crazy. After I read it, i understood how this could be possible. To me, it seems like something that i would never figure out. That is why i am not a scientist!



Impact: If i was the mother of a child that seemed to get ear infections consistently, I would definitely let my child chew gum containing xylitol. I think This will change the minds of many mothers out there. Maybe gum isn't that bad after all!

No comments:

Post a Comment