What Really Happens To Your Body When You Swallow Gum?
What really happens to your body when you swallow gum? Chewing gum is a popular pastime for many people, providing a tasty and satisfying way to freshen your breath, reduce stress, and improve concentration.
Author:Dr. Felix ChaosphereReviewer:Xander OddityFeb 17, 20237 Shares624 Views
What really happens to your body when you swallow gum? Chewing gum is a popular pastime for many people, providing a tasty and satisfying way to freshen your breath, reduce stress, and improve concentration.
However, there is a common myth that if you swallow chewing gum, it will stay in your stomach for seven years. Is this true, or just an urban legend?
The truth is that while swallowing chewing gum is not ideal, it is unlikely to cause any serious harm to your body.
The gum will pass through your digestive system and be eliminated in the same way as other food waste. However, the process may take a bit longer than with other foods, as gum is not easily broken down by the body's digestive enzymes.
So, what really happens to your body when you swallow gum? When you swallow chewing gum, it passes through your esophagus and into your stomach, where it is mixed with stomach acid and broken down into small pieces.
These pieces then move into the small intestine, where the nutrients from the gum are absorbed into the body. The remaining material is then eliminated through the colon and expelled as feces.
The reason that chewing gum is not easily broken down by the body is that it is made of a combination of synthetic and natural ingredients, including elastomers, resins, waxes, and flavorings.
These ingredients are designed to provide a long-lasting flavor and texture, which is why gum does not dissolve like other foods.
While swallowing chewing gum is generally safe, there are some risks to be aware of. In rare cases, large amounts of swallowed gum can cause a blockage in the digestive system, leading to discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. This is more likely to occur in young children, who may not have fully developed digestive systems and are more likely to swallow large amounts of gum.
In addition, some types of chewing gum contain artificial sweeteners, which can cause gastrointestinal issues in some people. These sweeteners are designed to be non-digestible, which can lead to bloating, gas, and diarrhea in some individuals.
So, while swallowing chewing gum is not harmful in most cases, it is still best to avoid doing so. The gum may take longer to digest than other foods, but it will eventually pass through your system without causing any serious harm.
To avoid any potential risks, it is best to dispose of chewing gum properly by wrapping it in paper and throwing it in the trash.
While swallowing chewing gum is not particularly harmful, it is important to note that the habit of chewing gum itself can have negative consequences on oral health.
Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which helps to neutralize acid and protect teeth from decay. However, many types of chewing gum contain sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay and other dental problems.
To avoid these issues, it is recommended to choose sugar-free chewing gum that contains xylitol, a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Additionally, it is important to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for routine checkups.
Another potential risk of swallowing chewing gum is that it may interact with certain medications.
For example, some medications for heartburn or acid reflux contain antacids that can reduce the acidity of stomach acid, making it more difficult for the stomach to break down the gum.
This can potentially cause the gum to stay in the digestive system longer than usual and cause discomfort.
What Happens if You Swallow Gum? | One Truth & One Lie
While the myth of gum staying in your stomach for seven years may be untrue, it is still important to be cautious and avoid swallowing gum when possible. This is particularly important for children, who may not understand the potential risks of swallowing large amounts of gum.
By practicing good oral hygiene and disposing of gum properly, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of chewing gum without any negative consequences for your body.
People Also Ask
Does Swallowing Gum Really Take Seven Years To Digest?
No, this is a common myth. While it is true that the body doesn't digest gum as quickly as other foods, it still passes through the digestive system and is eliminated like any other waste.
Can Swallowing Gum Cause Constipation?
In rare cases, swallowing a large amount of gum can cause a blockage in the digestive system, which can lead to constipation. However, this is unlikely to occur from swallowing a single piece of gum.
Is It Harmful To Swallow Chewing Gum?
Swallowing a small amount of chewing gum is not harmful, but it is still best to avoid doing so. Large amounts of gum can potentially cause a blockage in the digestive system, and some types of gum contain artificial sweeteners that can cause gastrointestinal issues.
What Happens If A Child Swallows Chewing Gum?
Swallowing a single piece of gum is unlikely to cause harm, but young children may be more likely to swallow larger amounts, which can potentially cause a blockage in the digestive system. It is best to monitor children when they are chewing gum and dispose of it properly.
How Long Does It Take For Chewing Gum To Pass Through The Digestive System?
While the body doesn't digest gum as quickly as other foods, it still passes through the digestive system and is eliminated in a similar way. The exact amount of time it takes can vary, but it is generally between one and seven days.
What Are The Risks Of Swallowing Chewing Gum?
While swallowing a small amount of chewing gum is generally considered safe, there are some potential risks associated with swallowing large amounts of gum. These include:
- Gastrointestinal blockage.
- Digestive discomfort.
- Choking.
Conclusion
What really happens to your body when you swallow gum? The myth that swallowing chewing gum will stay in your stomach for seven years is just that - a myth. While gum is not easily broken down by the body's digestive system, it will still pass through your system and be eliminated in the same way as other food waste.
However, it is still best to avoid swallowing gum whenever possible, as there are some potential risks to be aware of. By disposing of gum properly and avoiding excessive amounts, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of chewing gum without any negative consequences for your body.
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Dr. Felix Chaosphere
Author
Dr. Felix Chaosphere, a renowned and eccentric psychiatrist, is a master of unraveling the complexities of the human mind. With his wild and untamed hair, he embodies the essence of a brilliant but unconventional thinker. As a sexologist, he fearlessly delves into the depths of human desire and intimacy, unearthing hidden truths and challenging societal norms.
Beyond his professional expertise, Dr. Chaosphere is also a celebrated author, renowned for his provocative and thought-provoking literary works. His written words mirror the enigmatic nature of his persona, inviting readers to explore the labyrinthine corridors of the human psyche.
With his indomitable spirit and insatiable curiosity, Dr. Chaosphere continues to push boundaries, challenging society's preconceived notions and inspiring others to embrace their own inner tumult.
Xander Oddity
Reviewer
Xander Oddity, an eccentric and intrepid news reporter, is a master of unearthing the strange and bizarre. With an insatiable curiosity for the unconventional, Xander ventures into the depths of the unknown, fearlessly pursuing stories that defy conventional explanation. Armed with a vast reservoir of knowledge and experience in the realm of conspiracies, Xander is a seasoned investigator of the extraordinary.
Throughout his illustrious career, Xander has built a reputation for delving into the shadows of secrecy and unraveling the enigmatic. With an unyielding determination and an unwavering belief in the power of the bizarre, Xander strives to shed light on the unexplained and challenge the boundaries of conventional wisdom. In his pursuit of the truth, Xander continues to inspire others to question the world around them and embrace the unexpected.
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