When you swallow gum, your body cannot digest the gum base, which is made of synthetic or natural polymers that resist breakdown by stomach acids and enzymes. However, swallowed gum does not stay in your stomach or digestive tract for years as the myth suggests. Instead, it moves through your digestive system relatively intact and is excreted in your stool within a few days, typically about 40 hours later
. The digestive system treats gum like other indigestible substances such as seeds or fiber, pushing it along through normal peristaltic movements until it exits the body
. The sugar, flavorings, and other soluble components in gum are absorbed during chewing and digestion, but the gum base itself passes through unchanged
. Swallowing an occasional piece of gum is generally harmless. However, swallowing large amounts of gum, especially in a short period, or swallowing gum along with other indigestible objects (like sunflower seed shells or coins), can in rare cases cause a blockage in the digestive tract. Such blockages are more common in children and may require medical attention
. In summary:
- Gum base is indigestible but passes through the digestive system without harm.
- Gum does not stay in your stomach for years; it is expelled in stool within days.
- Swallowing small amounts of gum is safe.
- Large quantities or swallowing gum with other indigestible items can cause intestinal blockage, which is rare but serious.
Therefore, while swallowing gum occasionally is not dangerous, it is best to avoid swallowing it regularly or in large amounts
