Let’s admit it – we’ve all experienced that awkward moment when we accidentally let out a fart we try not to. It’s even worse when done in public.. but what if we’re telling you now that smelling farts is beneficial to your health?
The stinky gas we let out is scientifically called hydrogen sulphide and inhaling this gas has proven to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart attacks, strokes and even cancer. As ludicrous as it sounds, there are plenty of scientific studies backing up this claim.
“Although hydrogen sulphide is well known as a pungent, foul-smelling gas in rotten eggs and flatulence, it is naturally produced in the body and could in fact be a healthcare hero with significant implications for future therapies for a variety of diseases,” said Dr. Mark Wood of the University of Exeter in England.
But, how does it work? According to Professor Matt Whiteman of the university’s medical school, “When stressed by diseases, cells draw in enzymes to generate hydrogen sulphide which reverses mitochondrial damage in cells.
“Without the process, the cells would lose the ability to control inflammation and die,” added Whiteman, who created a compound named AP39 containing hydrogen sulphide, then released the gas to the mitochondria, which is responsible for nutrient digestion and generating power of cells.
“Our results indicate that if stressed cells are treated with AP39, mitochondria are protected and cells stay alive,” said the researcher. Would you consider taking a deep breath instead the next time someone around you farts? 😆