While breaking wind is a good thing in some respects, there can be too much of a good thing. Scientists recently discovered that we’re passing gas a lot more than previously thought, thanks to some “smarty pants.” Previous research pinpointed an average of 14 toots a day, but recently developed technology has accurately measured flatulence at 32 farts a day. To better understand excessive gastrointestinal issues and gut microbes, a team of researchers at the University of Maryland created Smart Underwear, a tiny wearable device that snaps discreetly onto underwear. Electrochemical sensors track intestinal gas production around the clock, except — ironically — when the person is on the toilet. Individual rates varied widely, with some farting as few as 4 times a day, while others let ‘er rip up to 59 times. Previous estimates were lower due to self-reporting errors, invasive techniques that provided inaccurate data, and people’s perceptions about what counts as flatulence.
