Swallowing gum is generally harmless, and it will pass through the digestive system relatively intact and come out in a bowel movement
. The human body cannot digest the gum base, but it does not stay in the stomach or cause intestinal problems. However, in rare cases, swallowing a large mass of gum or many small pieces of gum over a short period of time can block the digestive tract, especially when gum is swallowed along with foreign objects or nondigestible materials
. If you accidentally swallow a piece of gum, there is no need to worry, but if you swallow three or more pieces of gum per day, it could be considered excessive
. If you experience abdominal pain, constipation, a feeling of extreme fullness or swelling, severe cramping, or vomiting after swallowing a lot of gum, you should seek medical attention immediately
