Tada A, et al. - Researchers analysed the literature regarding the relationship between mastication and factors affecting masticatory function, and obesity in adults. A positive association between mastication and obesity among adults was revealed in most of the studies. In 12 out of 16 cross-sectional studies, poorer mastication was associated with obesity. Compared to normal weight group, obesity group displayed higher tooth loss as demonstrated by 1 cohort study. One randomized controlled trial (RCT) suggested a significant decrease in waist circumference with gum-chewing intervention for 8 weeks.