Since time immemorial, adults have been telling kids, ''Spit out that gum.'' Turns out, the adults should be chewing gum as a way to reduce calories. Take our gum quiz.

1. How many calories are in a serving (one stick) of sugar-free gum?

a) 0-4 calories

b) 5-10 calories

c) 10-15 calories

2. According to a study published in the journal Appetite in 2007, chewing gum three hours before an afternoon snack saw what results:

a) a consumption of 36 fewer calories in the afternoon snack than among non-gum chewers

b) a 42 percent greater need to consume fluids instead of solid food during the afternoon snack

c) a 28 percent increase in repetitive temporomandibular joint discomfort

3. True or false: The benefits for the group involved in the 2007 study were seen only in a subgroup chewing sugar-free gum.

4. True or false: According to the American Dietetic Association, chewing gum may help improve alertness and concentration, and help relieve daily stresses like driving in traffic or waiting in line.

5. The ADA says psychiatrists and psychologists suggest that two main reasons people chew gum are to:

a) placate anger and frustration

b) deal with mother issues and abandonment feelings

c) relieve tension and boredom

Answers: 1: b; 2: a; 3: false (both regular and sugar-free chewers consumed fewer calories); 4: true; 5: c.

Source: American Dietetic Association (www.eatright.org)

McClatchy Newspapers

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