You won't believe what chewing gum does to your stomach!

The effect of chewing on stomach acid production and risks to the stomach

Chewing activates saliva production, which in turn sends signals to the stomach to prepare for digestion. This process stimulates the secretion of gastric acids, which are necessary for the breakdown of food. However, when chewing gum without ingesting food, the acids produced can act on the gastric mucosa devoid of contents to be digested, potentially irritating it and increasing the risk of developing conditions such as gastritis or ulcers. Gastroenterologist Felice Cosentino points out that chewing gum can activate acid-gastric secretion mechanisms, worsening conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux.

Chewing gum: watch out for abdominal bloating and stomach upset

Chewing gum can promote involuntary ingestion of air, causing abdominal bloating, flatulence, and discomfort. This phenomenon is particularly problematic for those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as the accumulation of gas in the digestive tract can intensify gastrointestinal symptoms. (source: ok-health-it)

In addition, chewing gum on an empty stomach can further increase stomach acid production, according to yourwellness.co.uk. To reduce the risk of bloating due to unintentional ingestion of air, it is recommended to limit consumption to a maximum of three times a day, for no more than 45 minutes per session.

The risks of sorbitol in chewing gum

Many chewing gums contain sweeteners such as sorbitol, a polyalcohol used to sweeten without resorting to sugar. However, excessive intake of sorbitol can have laxative effects, causing diarrhea and abdominal cramps. According to Humanitas.com, sorbitol can also cause other side effects, such as anal irritation, gas, nausea and cramps. It is essential to consult a doctor if you experience severe symptoms, such as skin rashes, difficulty breathing, rectal bleeding or sudden weight loss. For those who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), it is advisable to limit or avoid chewing gum, as it often contains artificial sweeteners that can aggravate bowel disorders.

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