Text:

If you swallow gum, it will stay in your system for 7 years.

Context:

This was told to the informant as a child, and it caused her to be very aware and cautious whenever she chewed gum.

Analysis:

This is a common thing told to children, and can sometimes be believed well into adulthood. It is used to dissuade children from swallowing gum rather than spitting it out. The informant also mentioned how she was told this to prevent her from swallowing gum in her sleep, as she would chew it late at night sometimes. It was more out of safety than anything else.