This Is What Happens When You Eat Mint Every Day

The next time someone offers you a stick of gum, you should say yes. That's because it turns out mint can help with not only bad breath but a number of health issues as well. According to Power of Positivity, mint, which is a type of plant, can help improve digestion, brain health, and even cold symptoms, so you might want to incorporate eating more mint into your everyday diet. 

That doesn't mean you need to be consuming only peppermint or spearmint either. The mint plant actually incorporates other herbs, like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme (via Michigan State University). So, the next time you're cooking, feel free to add a touch of mint to your dishes. They'll not only give an extra bit of flavor, but according to Heathline, mint is rich in nutrients. It has tons of antioxidants and is full of Vitamin A, which helps to improve your eyesight.

Among the many health benefits of mint, it's great for anyone suffering from digestion problems. You may notice that a lot of medicines like Mylanta and GasX come in mint flavors. That's because mint, especially peppermint oil, can help to "speed up the digestion process" (via Power of Positivity). If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), adding a bit of peppermint oil to your diet will help alleviate some symptoms, so feel free to make a bit of homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream. It's good for you. 

Another major benefit of mint is that it can help your memory. The menthol in peppermint can also calm you down, which is why it's a good idea to chew on some gum during a test to help you remember everything you'd studied and de-stress. According to Livestrong, mint can also help you exercise, but only for a short period of time during your workout. Add a bit of peppermint oil to your water bottle, and you may see a subtle positive difference the next time you hit the gym or workout at home.

Mint may also help to alleviate pain from headaches and reduce mucus buildup, so when you sense a cold coming on, it's time to make yourself a cup of mint tea. With so many benefits and ways to consume mint, it doesn't hurt to enjoy a little bit every day.