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Swallowing seeds is typically harmless, and any fears about them sprouting or causing harm inside your body are largely unfounded. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Stomach Acid and Enzymes
Once a seed is swallowed, it travels to the stomach, where digestive acids and enzymes begin breaking down its outer coating. However, this process doesn’t fully break down most seeds, and it rarely causes any issues. - Lack of Oxygen and Light
For seeds to germinate, they need oxygen, moisture, and sometimes light. While there is moisture in your digestive tract, the absence of oxygen and light makes it nearly impossible for seeds to sprout inside the body. - Rapid Passage Through the Digestive Tract
Food and seeds move relatively quickly through the digestive system, usually within 1 to 3 days. This doesn’t give seeds enough time to absorb water or begin the germination process. - Excretion Through Stool
Any seeds that aren’t fully digested are excreted through the stool within a few days. This is a normal and natural process, often going unnoticed.
In extremely rare cases, seeds have been known to sprout after being excreted, especially if they pass through the digestive system quickly. However, this occurs outside the body in more favorable conditions.