Chewing gum: bad?

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"I have heard chewing gum is good for your memory. Do you know if this is true?"

Thanks for this great question; I like a little challenge.

This study says yes: Wilkinson et al (2002) but the effect is selective

This study says yes: Baker et al (2004) but if at the time of recall you weren't chewing memory was worse (context effects)

This study says no: Tucha et al (2004) and alertness was adversely affected

This study says no: Johnson and Miles (2007)

This study says no: Miles and Johnson (2007)

So its seems like one of those beautiful messes the psychology literature likes to get itself in, but I would make a judgement: the only evidence for is either selective or compromised by the finding of negative effects. Plus the 2007 papers fail to replicate the earlier effects. So, to answer your question: no, it doesn't improve memory. In fact, it may make it worse and just puncture your alertness.

More strange and wonderful questions welcome.