Chewing gum and context-dependent memory effects: a re-examination

Appetite. 2007 Mar;48(2):154-8. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2006.07.082. Epub 2006 Oct 19.

Abstract

Two experiments re-examined whether chewing spearmint gum affects initial word learning and/or immediate recall for a word list. Both experiments failed to show effects of chewing gum at learning or recall, nor did they suggest that chewing gum produces a context-dependent memory effect. This was true when extraneous contextual cues at learning and recall were minimised (Experiment 2). Together, the data are inconsistent with [Wilkinson, L., Scholey, A. & Wesnes, K. (2002). Chewing gum selectively improves aspects of memory in healthy volunteers. Appetite, 38, 235-236.] claim that chewing gum aids immediate recall of visually presented words. Our results are consistent with [Baker, J. R., Bezance, J. B., Zellaby, E. & Aggleton, J. P. (2004). Chewing gum can produce context-dependent effects upon memory. Appetite, 43, 207-210.] finding that chewing gum of itself is not a sufficient condition to provoke context-dependent learning with immediate testing.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Chewing Gum*
  • Cognition / physiology
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Learning / physiology*
  • Male
  • Mastication / physiology*
  • Memory / physiology*
  • Mental Recall
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Reaction Time

Substances

  • Chewing Gum