The Surprising Truth About Chewing and Swallowing
While the folklore of swallowed gum staying in your stomach for years is just a myth, the reality is that the gum base is indigestible. When swallowed, a single piece will typically pass through your system in a few days, much like other fibrous materials. The real dangers of gum come from the long-term, excessive practice of chewing or repeatedly swallowing large quantities.
Impact on Your Digestive System
Excessive chewing signals your body to prepare for digestion, releasing stomach acids and enzymes into an empty stomach. This can lead to an overproduction of stomach acid, potentially increasing the risk of ulcers over time. For those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), this can worsen symptoms.
- Bloating and Gas: Chewing gum causes you to swallow excess air, which accumulates in the digestive tract and can cause bloating, abdominal pain, and gas.
- Laxative Effect: Many sugar-free gums contain sugar alcohols like sorbitol and mannitol, which have a known laxative effect. Consuming large quantities can lead to cramping and chronic diarrhea.
- Intestinal Blockage: Although rare, swallowing large amounts of gum in a short period can potentially create a blockage, or bezoar, in the intestines. This is particularly a risk for children and may require medical intervention.
The Strain on Your Jaw and Head
Constant, repetitive chewing can lead to muscular and joint issues in the jaw.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: Overuse of the jaw muscles can lead to fatigue, pain, and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. This can result in clicking sounds, headaches, and facial muscle pain.
- Tension Headaches: Several studies have linked frequent gum chewing to an increase in tension-type headaches, particularly in those who are already prone to them.
The Dental Health Double-Edged Sword
Gum's effect on dental health depends heavily on the type you choose.
| Comparison: Sugared vs. Sugar-Free Gum | Feature | Sugared Gum | Sugar-Free Gum (with Xylitol) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effect on Teeth | Feeds harmful mouth bacteria, increasing risk of tooth decay and cavities. | Stimulates saliva flow, which helps neutralize plaque acids and strengthen enamel. Xylitol actively inhibits cavity-causing bacteria. | |
| Oral Hygiene | Harmful if not followed by brushing, as sugar lingers on teeth. | An effective post-meal supplement to brushing, but not a replacement. | |
| Digestive Impact | Primarily an issue due to high sugar content, but can lead to cravings. | Can cause bloating, gas, and a laxative effect due to sugar alcohols. |
Hidden Chemicals and Health Concerns
Beyond the more obvious effects, some gum ingredients have raised additional concerns.
- Microplastics: Many modern gum bases are made of synthetic polymers, a type of plastic. While research is ongoing, studies suggest these plastics can be released into your mouth during chewing.
- Artificial Sweeteners: Some sugar-free gums use sweeteners that are not sugar alcohols, such as aspartame. There are ongoing debates about their potential effects on gut microbiota and other health factors.
- Titanium Dioxide: Used as a whitener and texturizer, titanium dioxide has been banned in food in the European Union due to safety concerns regarding potential chromosome damage. It is, however, still legal in the U.S. and can be found in some gum.
- Mercury Amalgam Fillings: Chewing gum can potentially increase the release of mercury from older amalgam dental fillings into your body.
Conclusion
While a single piece of swallowed gum is not dangerous, the frequent, habitual consumption and chewing of gum can lead to a host of unpleasant and potentially serious health issues, from jaw pain and headaches to digestive distress and dental problems. Choosing a sugar-free gum with xylitol and limiting chewing sessions to 15-20 minutes after meals can maximize potential dental benefits while minimizing the risks. However, people with existing conditions like IBS or TMJ should be cautious. The best advice is to chew in moderation and listen to your body. For more information on dental health, you can consult with your dentist or a trusted source like the American Dental Association.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for swallowed gum to pass through your system?
Contrary to the myth, it typically passes through your digestive tract in about 40 hours to a few days, not seven years.
Can swallowing a lot of gum cause an intestinal blockage?
Yes, in very rare cases, swallowing a large, solid mass of gum or many pieces over a short time can combine with other materials and create a blockage. This is more common in young children.
Does chewing gum help with stress?
Yes, for many people, the rhythmic act of chewing can reduce stress and anxiety by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Can sugar-free gum cause diarrhea?
Yes, sugar alcohols like sorbitol and mannitol, used to sweeten many sugar-free gums, can have a laxative effect if consumed in large quantities.
Is it bad to chew gum with mercury fillings?
Some dentists advise against it, as chewing gum can potentially release small amounts of mercury from older amalgam fillings.
What are the main side effects of chewing gum constantly?
Constant chewing can lead to jaw pain, TMJ disorders, frequent headaches, and may worsen digestive issues like IBS and bloating due to swallowed air.
Is gum a type of plastic?
Yes, modern gum bases are largely made from synthetic polymers, or plastics, such as polyvinyl acetate. These are food-grade and not meant to be digested.
