Why do we fart, and why is it funny and embarrassing too?
Farting is a natural and normal part of digestion that reflects the activity of the bacteria in your gut. You might also notice that you fart more when you eat certain foods that are more difficult to digest, such as beans or cabbage.
Farting can also be a sign of good health, as it means that your digestive system is working properly.
Some people may find farting funny or embarrassing, but it is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, some cultures even celebrate farting as a form of humour or art. For example, in Japan, there is a traditional art form called ‘he-gassen, which means ‘fart battle‘. It depicts people farting at each other in various situations, such as war, politics, or even romance, would you believe.
Benefits of a good fart
Scientists have identified the bacterium that’s responsible for making us pass wind. They say it is also helping keep other more harmful and dangerous bacteria, such as salmonella from infecting your gut.
The Taurinivorans muris bacterium converts the food we eat into hydrogen sulphide – as smelly gas that stinks of rotten eggs. yes, you know the one – we’ve all done one! But the amazing thing is it acts a chemical soldier keeping bad bacteria at bay.
So, next time you pass wind – think of all the good it’s doing, even if it does stink a little!