Swallowing gum is a common occurrence among both children and adults. We have all heard the age-old warning that if you swallow gum, it will stay in your stomach for seven years.

But is there any truth to this popular belief? Let’s explore the truth about swallowing gum and its effect on the body.

What Happens When You Swallow Gum?

Contrary to popular belief, swallowing gum doesn’t stay in your stomach for years. The digestive system cannot break down gum as it does with other foods. However, this doesn’t mean that swallowing gum is completely harmless.

How Long Does It Take to Digest Gum?

Although your body cannot digest gum, it typically passes through your digestive system within a few days. Normally, your stomach acids and digestive enzymes break down food into smaller particles, eventually allowing your body to absorb nutrients.

Gum, on the other hand, simply passes through your digestive system intact and comes out in your stool.

What Are the Potential Risks?

While swallowing gum is usually harmless and passes through the body without causing any issues, there can be potential risks involved. One concern is the possibility of gum forming a blockage in the digestive system, especially in young children.

This blockage, known as a bezoar, occurs when various substances clump together and create a mass that can inhibit the passage of food and waste through your digestive system.

While bezoars are rare, they can cause abdominal pain, constipation, and other digestive problems. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove the blockage.

That being said, it is important to note that bezoars are not solely caused by swallowing gum; they can form from the accumulation of other substances like hair or undigested food particles.

The Myth of Gum Staying in Your Stomach for Seven Years

It is a common misconception that if you swallow gum, it will stay in your stomach for seven years. This myth likely originated from the fact that gum cannot be digested.

However, as mentioned earlier, gum typically passes through the digestive system within a few days and comes out in your stool.

What About the Ingredients in Gum?

While most of the ingredients in gum, such as sweeteners and flavorings, are considered safe for consumption, some types of gum may contain artificial additives that could have side effects if consumed in excessive amounts.

For example, sugar-free gum often contains artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sorbitol, which, when consumed in large quantities, can cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

It is important to moderate your gum consumption, especially if you are consuming sugar-free varieties.

Can Swallowing Gum Lead to Appendicitis?

There is a common belief that swallowing gum can lead to appendicitis. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Appendicitis is primarily caused by an infection or blockage in the appendix, not by swallowing gum.

If you experience severe abdominal pain, it is recommended to consult a medical professional rather than attributing it to swallowing gum.

Tips to Avoid Swallowing Gum

If you frequently find yourself accidentally swallowing gum, here are some tips to help you avoid doing so:.

Avoid chewing gum when exercising or engaging in activities that may increase the likelihood of accidentally swallowing it.
Dispose of gum properly after you are finished chewing it.
Supervise young children while they chew gum to prevent any swallowing incidents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while swallowing gum is not as harmful as the popular myth suggests, it is still important to exercise caution and avoid excessive gum consumption.

While the digestive system cannot break down gum, it typically passes through the body without causing any issues. However, swallowing gum can potentially lead to a blockage in the digestive system, especially in young children. Remember to dispose of gum properly and supervise young children to prevent any complications.