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# What about chewing gum?
- URL: https://www.preanaesthesia.com/what-about-chewing-gum/
- Published: 2026-09-13T04:45:37.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-13T08:25:43.000Z
- Description: Understand why you should follow your hospital’s instructions and tell the team if you have chewed gum while fasting.
- Author: preetam satish
- Tags: Fasting, #Import 2026-09-12 18:04

If you have been told not to chew gum, follow that instruction. Current ASA guidance suggests that an elective procedure in an otherwise healthy adult does not necessarily need to be delayed solely because the person chewed gum while fasting, but the gum should be removed before sedative or anaesthetic medicines are given.

This does not mean chewing gum is encouraged before surgery, and it does not apply automatically to every patient.

## Related reading

- [Why do I have to fast before anaesthesia?](https://www.preanaesthesia.com/why-do-i-have-to-fast-before-anaesthesia/)
- [When should I stop eating and drinking?](https://www.preanaesthesia.com/when-should-i-stop-eating-and-drinking/)
- [What counts as a clear liquid?](https://www.preanaesthesia.com/what-counts-as-a-clear-liquid/)
- [Can I drink water before surgery?](https://www.preanaesthesia.com/can-i-drink-water-before-surgery/)
- [Can I have tea or coffee?](https://www.preanaesthesia.com/can-i-have-tea-or-coffee/)