Short answer: Swallowing gum is generally not dangerous and does not stay in the body for years; it mostly passes through the digestive system and is excreted, though it should not be relied on as a food source or habit. Details

• What happens to swallowed gum
  • The gum base is designed to resist digestion by stomach enzymes, so the gum piece itself remains largely intact as it moves through the digestive tract. It travels through the stomach and intestines and is excreted in the stool. This process typically takes a few days, not years. [This is why gum generally passes through the digestive system without causing harm.](javascript:void(0))

• Common myths
  • The popular belief that swallowed gum stays in the body for seven years is a myth. The digestive system can move and expel it, though it may take a short time to pass.

• Safety considerations
  • Occasional swallowing of gum is usually harmless for most people, but habitual swallowing or swallowing large amounts can pose risks, especially in young children or if there are underlying swallowing or digestive issues. If there are persistent symptoms after swallowing gum (pain, vomiting, inability to swallow, abdominal distress), seek medical advice.

• Practical guidance
  • It’s best to chew gum until flavor is gone and then dispose of it in a trash receptacle rather than swallowing it. This reduces any theoretical risk of choking or GI discomfort in sensitive individuals.

If you’d like, I can tailor this explanation for a specific audience (kids, adults, medical students) or provide a simple, step-by-step graphic you can share.