why is chewing gum not permitted after vertical sleeve surgery

My understanding is because if it is swallowed because it isn't digested in the stomach and the narrowing of the opening between the sleeve and intestines is so narrow that it could get stuck and cause problems.

Makes some sense, doesn't it?

2 minutes ago, Frustr8 said:

Makes some sense, doesn't it?

It does. But I never in my life swallowed gum and while I repeatedly tell my husband that he still insists that I don't chew it. Sometimes I'll sneak some for a short time just to freshen my breath anyway.

Actually, the hydrochloric acid in your stomach makes short work of any chewing gum. The main issues are the same with people who have ulcers; with unintentional swallowing of air which can cause bloating, and the increase of digestive juices because your body reacts to the chewing in preparation of food intake. Constant chewing of gum can actually deplete your digestive secretions and lessen your ability to break down nutrients when you actually do eat food.