Did you know THIS can boost your memory and mood?

A lot of us are constantly on the lookout for ways to boost our mental focus. But many of the suggested techniques for doing so -- like listening to classical music -- haven't been borne out by science.

However, research supports the claim that chewing gum -- yes, gum -- offers various cognitive benefits.

The mint in gum increases blood flow to your brain, which in turn improves your memory. In fact, studies show that chewing a stick of gum can improve your short-term memory by as much as 35 percent.

People performed better on math and verbal problems -- from repeating numbers backwards to solving complex logic puzzles -- and were about 10 percent more alert when chomping away. (It's important to note that after 20 minutes or so, the benefits of gum chewing essentially dissipated.)

One reason may have to do with the fact that chewing mint or caffeinated gum has been shown to reduce sleepiness. Eat your heart out, coffee!

A mood boost, too, may await you when you chew gum. One study found that gum-chewing could increase heart rate and cortisol levels, in turn making you feel happier.

The best part? These benefits extend to people of all ages.

Some studies contend that it isn't so much the gum itself but rather the act of chewing that sharpens focus and alertness -- what is known as "mastication-induced arousal."

Since learning of these benefits, I've taken to chewing gum over the course of the day -- whether I'm exercising or reading.

Of course, it doesn't mean you should expect to become the next Einstein overnight. But given the salutary perks that gum offers beyond keeping your teeth healthy and your breath smelling good (assuming the gum contains no sugar), isn't it worth a try?

Whether you swear by Trident, Extra, 5 Gum, Mentos, Eclipse, or Dentyne, there's no denying a mere stick of gum can enhance your cognitive performance.

And for those of you watching your waste line, you can take comfort in knowing that sugar-free gum generated in studies the same benefits as the sweet stuff.

So the next time you're aiming to ward off sleepiness and better your concentration, considering popping a stick of gum.

Happy chewing!

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