Chewing gum and how it affects you ?

crazy question I know but, we are told not to chew gum which I am actually okay with as I was never a big gum chewer. However at the end of the month I will be having my hip replaced and one of the things they recommend is that you bring your favourite gum to chew after surgery as it helps with pain control and help your bowels normalize . Having not tried gum I'd like to know from those who have how it affects them . Thanks  as always in advance! 

I chew sugar free gum (usually trident) probably once a week.  My mouth gets so dry it really helps.  Also my surgeon said it was fine.  It has not affected anything bodily wise but I do record it in my fitness pal as it does have carbs.  Good luck with your surgery

The only problem with gum is swallowing it. If it gets stuck, you could be in big trouble. If you aren't a swallower, it's not an issue.

I had a knee replacement and survived without gum. I will NOT chew gum.  As stated it could get stuck.  Good luck with your hip replacement.  

I was told no gum... but then I have read so many that do chew. I love gum.

I did wait until I was several months out after surgery, because I was so afraid I'd accidentally swallow it! I did swallow a mint by accident once, and I could feel it in there forever it seemed. 

I chew now... several times a day. I don't have any side effects from it at all.

SF gum helps me when I have head hunger! I chew it all the time. I don't think sleevers have issues with it getting stuck but I've never swallowed it before, so I don't plan on it now.

All surgeries have narrow and swollen pathways after surgery, so it can be equally dangerous.

That's what I was considering as well .

I think I'll try to take some chewy protein snacks with me ( I will be topping up on protein while I'm in hospital)

I think I'll wait on gum! it's not a food !

Thanks everyone!

I am 16 years post op and I was never told not to chew gum and I do chew sugar free from time to time.  I think the big issue is that most sf gum uses artificial sweetner and can trigger cravings.   There is no other issue as to why we cannot chew it, just don't swallow it.   I think you should be find to bring your favorite sf gum and just plan on drinking plenty of water behind it.  

Good luck!