Scientists at the University of Maryland are asking an important question: How often do people fart?
The team of scientists built a small wearable device, about the size of a nickel, that clips onto your underwear and records every time you let one rip. (We first told you about this device last month.)
It may sound funny, but the doctors behind the study say that it’s serious science. Because right now there’s no baseline for healthy gas levels.
Here’s what one of the doctors said, “More than one-in-five people report experiencing excess intestinal gas, but right now there’s no objective measure of whether they’re telling the truth or not.”
The project is now expanding nationwide through something called the Human Flatus Atlas. All volunteers need to do is wear the device for three days so researchers can gather the data.
Early results show a huge range. Some people pass gas four times a day. And others reach about 175. That breaks down to a toot every 8 minutes. (And maybe a recommendation that you cut back on dairy.)
The doctor leading the study is stoked about the progress so far. He said, “We’re in the unknown here, and it’s always an extremely exciting place to be.”
(CBS News)
