Why Do Baseball Players Chew?

Baseball players have been chewing tobacco for years, but why do they do it? Some say it helps them relax, others say it gives them an edge.

The History of Baseball and Chewing Tobacco

For as long as baseball has been around, players have been chewing tobacco. It’s a tradition that started with the game’s earliest players and has continued all the way to modern times. While there are a variety of reasons why players chew, the most popular explanation is that it helps them relax and focus on the game.

The Early Days of Baseball

The history of baseball and chewing tobacco dates back to the early days of the sport. Baseball players were some of the first to adopt the practice of chewing tobacco, and it quickly became a popular way to enjoy the game.

Tobacco use in baseball dates back to the 1860s, when players would chew tobacco to stay alert and focused during long games. By the early 1900s, nearly all players were using tobacco in some form or another. Chewing tobacco was especially popular because it gave players a quick energy boost and helped them stay focused on the game.

Players would often keep a stash of tobacco in their pockets or on the bench, and they would chew during breaks in the action. Some players even used tobacco juice to help relieve pain from injuries.

The popularity of chewing tobacco among baseball players led to its widespread use among fans as well. Many fans would chew tobacco while they watched games, and it became a tradition that is still practiced today by many baseball fans.

Despite its long history in baseball, chewing tobacco has come under scrutiny in recent years due to its health risks. Players have been banned from using chewing tobacco at most levels of the sport, and many fans have given up the habit as well.

The Rise of Chewing Tobacco in Baseball

Since the early days of baseball, players have been dipping tobacco. The habit gained popularity in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and by the 1920s, nearly every player in the major leagues was chewing tobacco. At first, players would share a single plug or wad of tobacco, passing it around from player to player. This led to the spread of diseases like tuberculosis and cancer.

In the 1930s, studies began to link chewing tobacco to cancer, and players began to lose interest in the habit. By the 1950s, chewing tobacco was on the decline in baseball. However, a new generation of players revived the habit in the 1970s and 1980s. Today, an estimated 30 percent of major league players still chew tobacco.

The Health Risks of Chewing Tobacco

Many baseball players start chewing tobacco when they are in the minor leagues and they think it makes them look cool. They see the older guys doing it and they want to fit in. What they don’t realize is that they are putting their health at risk.

Cancer

Cancer is one of the most serious health risks associated with chewing tobacco. Chewing tobacco increases your risk of developing cancer of the mouth, esophagus, and pancreas. People who chew tobacco are also at an increased risk of developing heart disease and stroke.

Oral Health Risks

There are numerous oral health risks associated with chewing tobacco, including an increased risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and mouth cancer.

Gum disease is caused by bacteria in the mouth, which can irritate and inflame the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss.

Tooth decay occurs when the enamel (the hard outer layer of teeth) is eroded by acid. This can happen if you chew tobacco that contains sugar. The acid in chewing tobacco can also cause cavities (holes in the teeth).

Mouth cancer is one of the most serious risks associated with chewing tobacco. Mouth cancer includes cancers of the tongue, lips, gums, and roof of the mouth. Chewing tobacco increases the risk of developing mouth cancer because it exposes the tissues in the mouth to harmful chemicals.

Cardiovascular Disease

Chewing tobacco is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This includes heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Chewing tobacco increases the level of nicotine in your blood, which can lead to these problems.

The Alternatives to Chewing Tobacco

Many baseball players chew to help them focus on the game. Chewing also gives them a way to keep their mouths from getting dry. Some players use sunflower seeds, gum, or candy instead of tobacco.

Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are a popular alternative to chewing tobacco, especially among baseball players. Many players believe that sunflower seeds help them relax and focus on the game. Seeds also provide a nutritional boost and can help keep your energy levels up.

Gum

Gum is a great alternative to chewing tobacco because it satisfies the urge to chew without the harmful effects of tobacco. Plus, it’s easy to find and comes in a variety of flavors.

There are a few things to keep in mind when chewing gum, though. First, make sure you’re choosing sugar-free gum to avoid the negative effects of sugar on your teeth. Second, don’t chew for too long or you may end up with a sore jaw. And last, be mindful of where you dispose of your gum so that it doesn’t end up as litter.

Mints

Mints are a refreshing way to keep your breath smelling great, and they can also help you fight off hunger cravings. There are many different brands and flavors of mints on the market, so you’re sure to find one that you like.

Like gum, mints can also help you stay focused and alert. They’re a great way to keep your mind off of food, and they can help you resist the urge to chew tobacco.

Mints are also less likely to cause tooth decay than gum or tobacco. And, unlike tobacco, they won’t stain your teeth or give you bad breath.