What happens if you swallow chewing gum, science debunks the seven-year myth |

We have all heard the warning: “Don’t swallow gum, it will stay in your stomach for seven years.” It’s one of those playground myths that refuses to die. But science paints a very different picture. When you accidentally swallow gum, it doesn’t stick inside your stomach for years; it usually passes through your digestive system and leaves your body within a day or two, just like other indigestible foods.That said, researchers have found rare exceptions. A study published in the Journal of Pediatrics reported cases of children who developed intestinal blockages after swallowing multiple pieces of gum over time. The gum combined with other non-digestible materials to form sticky masses, called bezoars, that blocked the intestine. These situations are uncommon, but they show why moderation is important, especially for kids who may chew gum daily.So if you swallow gum once in a while, there’s no need to panic. Your body knows exactly how to handle it. Just don’t make swallowing gum a habit.

How swallowed gum moves through your digestive system

When gum enters your stomach, the digestive system treats it like any other indigestible material. The gum base is made from synthetic polymers and resins, which cannot be broken down by stomach acid or enzymes. However, sugars and flavorings in the gum are dissolved, and the base itself continues moving through your intestines.Within 24 to 48 hours, the gum is expelled naturally in stool. This process proves that swallowing gum does not “stick” inside the stomach or cause long-term harm for occasional swallowers.

The swallowing-chewing gum myth explained

The myth that gum stays in your stomach for seven years likely arose from its unusual texture. Unlike typical food, gum is flexible and indigestible, which makes it seem like it could linger in the digestive tract. Experts and studies confirm that while gum cannot be digested, your digestive system efficiently moves it along and eliminates it in a short period.Even though gum remains intact while traveling through the body, it does not cause harm unless large amounts are swallowed frequently or combined with other indigestible substances, which can rarely cause obstruction.

Risks of swallowing gum frequently

For most healthy adults, swallowing gum occasionally is completely harmless. However, repeated swallowing or swallowing multiple pieces at once can pose risks. The Journal of Pediatrics study highlights three children who developed intestinal blockages from frequent gum swallowing. These blockages, known as bezoars, form when gum sticks together with other indigestible material in the intestines.Children are particularly at risk because their digestive tracts are smaller. Adults with chronic constipation or motility issues should also be cautious if they tend to swallow gum regularly.

Safe chewing gum habits to prevent digestive issues

To enjoy gum without any risk:

Following these simple practices allows you to enjoy gum safely while preventing rare but possible digestive issues.Swallowing a piece of chewing gum occasionally is harmless, and the seven-year myth is completely false. Science proves that gum passes through your digestive system naturally within a couple of days. Rare cases, such as those documented in the Journal of Pediatrics study, show that frequent or excessive swallowing can lead to intestinal blockages, but these are extremely uncommon.So the next time you accidentally swallow gum, don’t panic. Your digestive system knows how to handle it. Just remember: gum is for chewing, not swallowing. Spit it out after use, and you can enjoy its benefits without worry.Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.Also read| 6 common causes of bloating that need medical attention