A new study out of the University of Exeter says catching a whiff of noxious gasses, like those in flatulence, could help the human body repair cell damage and prevent debilitating diseases such as cancer.

"Although hydrogen sulfide gas" - produced when bacteria breaks down food - "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," Dr. Mark Wood said in a university release.

Although the stinky gas can be noxious in large doses, scientists believe that a whiff here and there has the power to reduce risks of cancer, strokes, heart attacks, arthritis, and dementia by preserving mitochondria.

But scientists aren't advocating that we seek out flatulence: they are working on a compound, called AP39, that could deliver tiny doses to the body as needed.