Topic Explanation:
The forum topic is about the experiences and effects of chewing gum for individuals with ostomies or digestive issues. The initial post asks for others' experiences with chewing gum and its effects.

Advice and Insights:
- Chewing gum can cause gas and increase stoma activity for some individuals.
- Some hospitals recommend chewing gum after surgery to activate the digestive system.
- Chewing gum can help with dry mouth.
- Chewing gum may not cause issues if done with the mouth closed and not swallowed.
- Other activities like sucking on hard candies, smoking, and eating too quickly can also cause gas.
- Some individuals have found that switching to mints instead of gum helps reduce gas and stomach noise.
- Some individuals have not experienced any issues with chewing gum.
- Chewing gum with a dry tongue can be helpful, but it's important to chew with the mouth closed.