Here’s why some sportspersons chew gum on the field

Chewing is a rhythmic, repetitive motor activity that signals to the brain that the body is not in immediate danger.

Virat Kohli is often seem chewing gums on the cricket field (photos: Instagrm/Virat Kohli, Envato)

If you follow sports closely, you may have noticed many athletes, including Virat Kohli, constantly chewing gum during tense moments on the cricket field. While it might seem like a casual habit, there’s actual science behind it. Fitness coach Gurjit Sindhu has dissected his habit, explaining that when a person chews gum, their brain assumes that they are now safe, lowering the cortisol levels.

Dr Aniruddha Vasant More, Consultant Neurologist, Jupiter Hospitals, Thane, confirms this, stating that chewing is a rhythmic, repetitive motor activity that signals to the brain that the body is not in immediate danger. Chewing gum can reduce mild stress or anxiety through “activation of the parasympathetic nervous system → promotes relaxation,” “lowering of cortisol levels (shown in several small studies),” and “providing a physical outlet for nervous energy.” He adds, “So yes, chewing gum can make a person feel safer or grounded, although it won’t eliminate high stress—just soften it.”

Beyond calming nerves, gum can also improve focus, alertness, and cognitive performance, albeit modestly. “Research shows that chewing gum can provide small but noticeable improvements in attention and sustained focus, reaction time, alertness, and working memory (in some tasks),” says Dr More. “Why it works: increases blood flow to the brain by 20–25% during chewing, offers sensory stimulation → keeps the brain engaged, helps reduce stress, making it easier to focus.”

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Chewing gum also triggers hormonal and neurological changes. “Hormonal: Cortisol (stress hormone): Often decreases slightly, helping the person feel calmer. Epinephrine/noradrenaline: Mild increase due to stimulation, improving alertness,” Dr More explains. Neurologically, it leads to “increased activation in prefrontal cortex → supports decision-making and focus, enhanced blood flow to the brain as chewing increases heart rate slightly, release of dopamine from repetitive motor activity → improves motivation and sense of reward.” This combination explains why chewing gum feels both calming and focusing.

But is chewing gum in high-pressure situations healthy?

“Generally, yes, if done in moderation. Potential benefits include reduced stress, better concentration, fresher breath, and reduced snacking (if sugar-free). Risks (if excessive): jaw strain / TMJ pain, bloating (due to swallowed air), digestive discomfort from sugar alcohols (in sugar-free gum), dental issues (if using sugary gum). For healthy adults, 2–4 sugar-free gums per day is safe. If using gums with artificial sweeteners (sorbitol, xylitol): limit to 3–4 to avoid bloating/loose stools. People with jaw pain should avoid prolonged gum chewing.”

For Virat Kohli, chewing gum seems to serve a purpose beyond habit. It helps him manage stress, maintain focus, and stay alert during high-pressure situations—subtle but real effects that many athletes, students, and professionals also rely on. What may look like a casual ritual is, in fact, grounded in science.

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