Despite the widely-circulated myth, gum doesn’t stay in your system for seven years.
What happens if you swallow gum is much less interesting.
Undigested gum will simply pass a day or two later in a bowel movement.
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Most of the time, it won’t lead to any significant health consequences.
It does not stay in your stomach for seven years, as is popularly believed.
Thegastrointestinal (GI) systemconsists of everything from the lips to the anus.
Typically, food breaks down as it goes through the GI tract.
In some cases, gum also contains medication.
Can Swallowing Gum Be Harmful?
There can be downsides to chewing gum.
That’s why, in rare cases, it may lead to a bowel obstruction.
Symptoms of a bowel obstruction include:
Treatment for a bowel obstruction will depend on its severity.
In some cases, a stool softener may work to help the obstruction pass.
In the most serious cases, surgery is necessary.
Airway Obstruction
Swallowed gum can becomestuck in the throattoo.
This is more common in toddlers and children but may also occur in adolescents and adults.
Nicotine-containing gum is also used for smoking cessation.
Unfortunately, nicotine gum is not always clearly labeled.
If you suspect that your child has ingested nicotine gum, call 911 or your local poison control center.
you’re free to also call the national toll-free Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222.
For example, several studies find it may have a role in promoting healing after bowel surgery.
Some dentists also support gum chewing as a part of dental care.
Summary
If you accidentally swallow gum, there is usually no reason to worry.
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