When we were children, our parents warned us not to swallow gum. Some of us still remember those terrible prophecies: ‘It will stay in your stomach forever!’ – ‘It’ll clog up your butt!’ Well, the time has finally come to dispel those lingering fears!
Today we tell you what really happens when you accidentally swallow your favorite chewy strip of joy.
What Happens When You Swallow Chewing Gum
Liver:
Extracts the colorings, stabilizers, and preservatives present in the gum to protect
your body from an allergic reaction or poisoning.
Stomach:
Hydrochloric acid produced in our stomach splits up sugar, flavoring ingredients (for example, peppermint oil contained in many types of chewing gum), and softeners (such as vegetable oils or glycerine).
Intestine:
After the gum’s polymer base loses its sticky consistency, thanks to the hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes produced in the stomach, your intestine does a great job of removing it from the body in the space of 24 hours.
What Is Chewing Gum Made Of?
- Fragrances
- Sweeteners
- Colorings
- Chewable Base
- Elastomers
- Resins
- Fats
- Emulsifiers
- Wax
You Should See A Doctor If Swallowing Chewing Gum Has Led To The Following Symptoms:
- 37.5 Body temperature rising above 37.5 °C (99.5 °F)
- Blood pressure 180 rising above 130/80
- Rash, itchiness, and burning sensation
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
