Anytime you chew, you are triggering your digestive system which for all intents and purposes, ends the fast, which can be taxing if you do this often... I know for me, once my digestive system is shut down, I do not want it to be triggered under any circumstances because it's PAINFUL to be hungry on a fast. I would rather deal with the detox any day, than deal with feeling hungry.
What helps me when I feel hollow, or just icky and tempted to blow my fast, I squirt some honey or Agave Nectar in a spoon and slowly let it melt in my mouth... that and drinking hot, tart lemon/cayenne pepper tea... kills cravings and temptations!
I hope this helps, AJ. And I wish you much luck in your endeavor. Have you started a blog?