According to new study, this (odourous) habit of your husband’s helps you live longer

While the debate is still up in the air about whether marriage is advantageous to your health, it turns out that a particularly odourous habit of your husband’s may be good for you.

If you’ve got a spouse that’s particularly prone to letting it rip through the night, here’s some good news: for what it’s worth, his farts may be increasing your lifespan. Yes, you read that right – isn’t science a strange thing?

Researchers at the University of Exeter have found that hydrogen sulfide – yes, that scent that gives flatulence that rotten egg-like quality – can actually be beneficial to your health and boost your immune system. In small doses, of course.

The study found that the rancid microbial byproduct from passing gas which you probably resent could actually reduce the risk of cancer, heart attack, strokes, arthritis and dementia.

However, if you’re wondering what a ‘safe dose’ of inhaled hydrogen sulfide is, know that while the odd whiff of his gaseous wafts may have health benefits, you can actually overdose on it.

Now, of course we’re not suggesting that you start inhaling enthusiastically the next time your significant other passes gas. Rather, the next time you feel the need to snap at your flatulent-prone spouse when he lets it rip, consider picking and choosing your battles.  Because after all, it looks like they may make you live longer.

… only to inhale more of his gas, perhaps?

Sarah Khan

Photo: Getty Images

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