When it comes to flatulence, we've all, at one point or another, proven the "He who supplied it, denied it" saying to be quite accurate. But, according to researchers at the University of Exeter, you may actually want to beam with pride next time you cut the proverbial cheese.
According to a study published in Medicinal Chemistry Communications, the hydrogen sulfide gas released while farting might actually have positive health benefits. Scientists found that mitochondria — which regulate cellular metabolism, respiration, and energy output — were protected when exposed to small quantities of hydrogen sulfide gas. Since damage to the mitochondria has been linked to illnesses like cancer, diabetes, arthritis, Parkinson's, dementia, and cardiovascular disease, this discovery suggests that, whenever you smell a fart, you may actually be safeguarding yourself against these health problems.
Taking their discovery a step further, scientists at the University of Exeter made a compound called AP39 that delivers small amounts of the gas to the mitochondria and, in so doing, noticed that the process ensured stressed cells remained alive. The research is preliminary but could prove to be a medical breakthrough — albeit a smelly one!
Can't believe that smelling farts might actually benefit your health? Well, check out these four other unexpected flatulence-related benefits:
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THEY HELP LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE: Hydrogen sulfide is produced by an enzyme known as CSE, the production of which starts inside the cells lining the blood vessels. This substance has been shown to relax blood vessels and eliminate the possibility of hypertension, suggesting a link between flatulence and lower blood pressure.
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YOU'RE DEVELOPING A STRONGER IMMUNE SYSTEM: Fiber-rich foods boost the levels of beneficial gut bacteria that, lead to stinky gas, but also make molecules to prevent infections and strengthen the stomach and intestinal linings.
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FLATULENCE MEANS A HEALTHY GUT: If you feel bloated or find yourself in pain, then the cause of your flatulence could be more insidious but, generally, farting simply indicates your digestive system is functioning like a well-oiled machine.
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FARTS MAKE KIDS LAUGH: If you've ever let one rip in front of your grade school-aged son, then you know kids find farts to be the most hilarious (if gross) phenomena ever. And watching the kiddos laugh will, in turn, make you crack up and lead to a lot of family silliness.
So should we all need to double up on the beans and broccoli? You decide!
Image via Corbis
