Is it okay to swallow gum? The real story behind the old wives' tale
                                
                                
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                                    5 min read                                
                            
                                Less than 1% of accidental gum swallowings lead to complications, largely debunking the myth that swallowed gum stays in your stomach for seven years. Instead, your body processes the indigestible gum base much like other fibrous materials, passing it harmlessly through your system.