Chewing gum is an incredibly popular pastime around the world. Some people chew it to freshen their breath, while others use it to relieve stress or anxiety. However, there is a persistent myth that chewing gum stays in your stomach for seven years if you accidentally swallow it. This myth has been around for decades and has led to many misconceptions about the safety of chewing gum. In this article, we will debunk this myth and provide you with the facts about what happens to chewing gum when you swallow it.
What Happens When You Swallow Chewing Gum?
First, let’s look at what happens when you swallow chewing gum. When you swallow food, it moves through your digestive system, which is a series of organs that break down the food into nutrients that your body can use. The digestive system includes your mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus.
When you swallow chewing gum, it travels down your esophagus and into your stomach, just like food does. However, unlike food, chewing gum is not digested in your stomach. Instead, it moves through your digestive system largely intact. The reason for this is that chewing gum contains a type of gum base that is not broken down by your digestive juices.
Does Chewing Gum Really Stay in Your Stomach for Seven Years?
The short answer is no, chewing gum does not stay in your stomach for seven years. This is a myth that has been around for decades, but it is simply not true. While it is true that chewing gum is not digested in your stomach, it does not stay there indefinitely. Instead, it typically passes through your digestive system and is eliminated in your stool within a few days.
The reason for this is that your digestive system is designed to move food and other materials through your body efficiently. This means that anything that is not digested, such as chewing gum, is moved through your digestive system and eliminated in your stool. The process typically takes a few days, but it can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as your diet and your overall health.
Is Swallowing Chewing Gum Dangerous?
While swallowing chewing gum is not dangerous, it is not recommended. This is because swallowing a large amount of chewing gum can cause a blockage in your digestive system, which can be very painful and may require medical attention. Additionally, some chewing gums contain artificial sweeteners that can cause digestive issues, such as bloating and gas, in some people.
If you accidentally swallow a piece of chewing gum, there is no need to panic. It will pass through your digestive system and be eliminated in your stool within a few days. However, if you experience any pain or discomfort, or if you have swallowed a large amount of chewing gum, you should seek medical attention.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the myth that chewing gum stays in your stomach for seven years is simply not true. While chewing gum is not digested in your stomach, it typically passes through your digestive system and is eliminated in your stool within a few days. While swallowing a small amount of chewing gum is not dangerous, it is not recommended due to the risk of digestive issues and blockages. If you accidentally swallow a piece of chewing gum, there is no need to worry. It will pass through your digestive system and be eliminated in your stool in a few days.
