[poopoo]

i don't understand the problem with gum of the sugar free variety as long as you don't swallow it like a kid

[Rachael]

You know, I have no idea for sure - I'm too new to all this at this time to know much, but I have a couple of guesses - and I'm sure someone can come along who can give you the REAL answers.

One might be that when you chew gum, it might make you swallow air. I know postoperatively, patient's aren't supposed to suck through a straw because of air buildup in the tummy and cause gas and bloating.

But that would be just a total guess.

Another guess would be that digestion starts in the mouth. When you chew, it starts digestive juices going - and maybe this is not good after having had this type of procedure.

But again, that would just be a guess too.

Another guess is that I'm just bored and chatty - so I'm offering guesses. But I have to go take my dog out - and hopefully someone who really knows the answer to your question will come along soon.

[Kenyar]

i was told by my dr if you swallow it it blocks the passage between the pouch and the intestine. it also causes hunger supposedly. i have chewed gum; not regularly, and i have not swallowed it nor noticed an increase in appetite...yet.

[Rachael]

Oh - and I thought of another one - but again, I have nothing to substantiate this - but there is the psychological factor of having something in your mouth - like feeding a head hunger, is something to get away from.

[MsVickie]

Plain and simple. Your tummy isnt as big and gum will bind you UP!!! Litterally. I have chewed it but put more than one piece in my mouth so I didnt swallow it. They will all tell you NO !. If you do goodness be soooooooo careful.

[DocSanae]

Haven't heard so far about the head stuff.
The fact is, gums are a physical danger to pouchies.
Even if you know better than to swallow it, there is no telling when you may accidentally swallow. I'm sure y'all have done that once or twice.
Once in your pouch, it's going to get stuck there. It won't dissolve, it won't move. You need to keep in mind, the stoma--the opening in your pouch to the small intestines is only about half an inch or so. Someone--your surgeon or gastroentrologist will have to try to get it out through endoscopy, and if that doesn't do the job, it will have to be removed surgically.
For one glob of a sticky piece, that is a heck of a lot of trouble, and a heck of a $$$ bill for something that's what, a dime or so?

[beckamarie]

My surgeon says its because if you accidentaly swallow it it will cause some issues you dont want to deal with, he told me as long as I make good and sure I dont swallow it I can have it. It helps me with the whole craving thing if I am chewing gum my mind doesnt wander to food so much

[BOOTS]

I Dont Know A Piece Of Gum Is Just Not Worth The Risk Of Somthing Happening. Any Accident Can Happen And You Could Swallow It. Its Not Worth It And I Love Gum. When Im At The Supermarket I Stare At It On The Check Out Line. Lol

[traciflud]

my surgeion gave me a list of no-no's and gum was on there because of swallowing air.

[Lizzy]

I really havnt thought of it till I read this post ! Its something like smoking I guess . If I dont buy them I dont have to worry about it ! Liz