From the Guidelines
Chewing bubble gum can cause stomach bloating in some individuals, particularly those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), due to the swallowing of air and the presence of sugar alcohols like sorbitol in sugar-free gums. This occurs because when you chew gum, you tend to swallow air, a condition called aerophagia. Additionally, many sugar-free gums contain sugar alcohols like sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol, which aren't fully digested in the small intestine. When these substances reach the large intestine, gut bacteria ferment them, producing gas as a byproduct. For those with sensitive digestive systems or conditions like IBS, this can lead to noticeable bloating, gas, and discomfort, as suggested by the study on dietary and lifestyle advice for adults with IBS 1.
Some key points to consider:
- The study recommends that people with IBS should avoid sorbitol, an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free sweets (including chewing gum) and drinks, and in some diabetic and slimming products 1.
- Another study suggests that strategies to help reduce flatulence include swallowing and eating slowly, the avoidance of chewing gum, and the elimination of gas-producing foods such as cauliflower and legumes 1.
- If you experience bloating after chewing gum, you might try limiting your gum-chewing habits, choosing gums without sugar alcohols, or chewing for shorter periods. Being mindful of how you chew (avoiding gulping air) can also help reduce these symptoms.
- The bloating is typically temporary and resolves once your body processes the gas, but persistent symptoms might warrant discussing with a healthcare provider to rule out other digestive issues.
It's essential to note that while the evidence suggests a link between chewing gum and stomach bloating, particularly in individuals with IBS, the symptoms are usually manageable by making simple changes to gum-chewing habits or choosing different types of gum. However, if symptoms persist, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
From the Research
Stomach Bloating and Bubble Gum
- Chewing bubble gum can lead to swallowing air, which may contribute to stomach bloating 2.
- However, a study found that gum chewing did not increase or decrease the frequency of gastric or supragastric belches in patients with excessive belching or controls 2.
- The act of chewing gum can increase saliva swallowing in both patients with excessive belching and controls, and increase air swallowing in patients with excessive belching 2.
Management of Bloating
- Dietary interventions, such as reducing intestinal fermentation, and ingestion of food supplements like prebiotics or probiotics can reduce bloating by reducing gas production 3.
- Pharmacological treatments, including antispasmodics, neuromodulators, and antibiotics, can also be effective in managing bloating 3.
- Simethicone, an adjunct used in bowel preparation, has been shown to decrease bloating and improve bowel preparation effectiveness 4.
Relationship Between Gum Chewing and Bloating
- While gum chewing may contribute to air swallowing, which can lead to bloating, there is no direct evidence to suggest that chewing bubble gum causes stomach bloating 2.
- However, reducing gas production and improving intestinal gas tolerance can help manage bloating, and gum chewing may not have a significant impact on these factors 3, 4.