Chewing gum is a favorite pastime of many people, both young and old. It is found in various flavors and can be easily accessible when you want to ward off stress or boredom.

However, there are some myths surrounding chewing gum that might make you reconsider putting a piece in your mouth. For instance, many people believe that when you swallow chewing gum, it stays in your stomach for seven years. Others say that swallowing chewing gum can cause serious digestive problems. But is this true?.

What happens when you swallow chewing gum?

When you swallow chewing gum, it goes through the same digestive process as any other food. The stomach muscles break down the gum into smaller pieces and mix it with other food particles. However, unlike other foods, your body cannot digest gum.

The gum base is made from synthetic rubber, which is indigestible. This means that it will not dissolve in your stomach acids, nor will it be broken down by digestive enzymes. Instead, the gum base is pushed through your digestive system intact until it passes through the anus and is excreted.

Can swallowing chewing gum cause a blockage?

One of the most common myths surrounding chewing gum is that it can cause a blockage in your digestive system if you swallow it. However, this is not entirely true. In rare cases, swallowing a large amount of gum in a short period may cause a blockage.

This mostly occurs in children who swallow gum in large amounts, or when chewing gum is swallowed with other indigestible objects such as coins or toys. The gum, along with these other items, can get stuck in a narrow part of the digestive system, causing a blockage. However, this is a rare occurrence, and most people pass gum through their system without any problems.

Can swallowing chewing gum lead to appendicitis?

Another common myth surrounding chewing gum is that it can lead to appendicitis if swallowed. Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a small, thin pouch attached to the large intestine.

The exact cause of appendicitis is not known, but it is thought to occur when the appendix becomes blocked by something, such as stool or foreign matter. However, swallowing chewing gum is not one of the known causes of appendicitis. While it is possible for gum to get stuck in the appendix, the likelihood of this happening is low.

Most cases of appendicitis are caused by other factors, such as infection or inflammation.

Does swallowing chewing gum affect your digestive system?

Chewing gum is not harmful to your digestive system when swallowed. Similar to other items that are not digested, the gum does not stick to the lining of your intestines or cause any damage.

Some people believe that gum that is swallowed can cause harm to the stomach and intestines because it cannot be broken down. However, this is not the case. The gum simply passes through your system naturally like any other waste product.

How long does it take to pass swallowed chewing gum?

Most people typically excrete swallowed gum in their stools within a few days. Although the gum cannot be digested, the body is designed to excrete waste products efficiently.

If you are prone to constipation, it may take a bit longer for the gum to pass through your system. Nevertheless, the fact remains that the gum will pass through your system over time, without causing any damage.

Should you stop chewing gum altogether?

Swallowing chewing gum is not generally dangerous, but it is not advisable to make a habit of it.

The indigestible nature of the gum means that it can lead to a blockage in rare cases, and it can also be a choking hazard for children, especially those under the age of 5. Therefore, it is best to dispose of your gum properly after chewing it and avoid swallowing it, especially in large amounts. If you regularly experience digestive problems, consider cutting back on the gum to see if it helps alleviate your symptoms.

In conclusion

Contrary to popular belief, swallowing chewing gum is not necessarily dangerous. The gum simply passes through your digestive system naturally like any other waste product that cannot be digested.

While it is not advisable to make a habit of swallowing gum, the occasional accidental swallow poses no significant risk. It is vital to educate children not to swallow gum as it can be a choking hazard. Similarly, it is advisable if you typically experience digestive problems to avoid swallowing gum altogether.