Maybe you’ve heard a rumor that farting burns 67 calories. Not only that, but passing gas 52 times in one day can reportedly burn a pound of body fat. So, is farting actually an effective way to lose that holiday weight? Contrary to these popular Google searches, farting does not burn calories and is not an effective way to lose weight, Snopes reported. Here are some other facts and myths about the activity we all engage in, but never want to admit.

When you pass gas, your muscles relax and the gas pressure in your bowels do all the work in expelling the gas, therefore, straining yourself to the limit while flatulating is really the only way to possibly burn calories.

A 2014 study from the University of Exeter in England suggests inhaling the scent of farts could be good for your health, though it still won't help you lose weight.

"Although hydrogen sulfide gas 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," researcher Dr. Mark Wood said.

Farting can also mean that you have a healthy gut. NPR reported that letting one rip could be a sign that the microbes in our stomach are busy doing their jobs.

Additionally, if you’re feeling bloated then passing gas will instantly reduce feelings of discomfort and flatten your stomach, the Huffington Post reported.

But, farting has some hidden dangers in addition to an offensive odor.

On April 15 at the Tokyo Medical University Hospital, a patient farted during a surgical procedure on her cervix. The flatulence sparked a fire, which caused her serious burns to her body.

“When the patient’s intestinal gas leaked into the space of the operation (room), it ignited with the irradiation of the laser, and the burning spread, eventually reaching the surgical drape and causing the fire,” stated a report from the university hospital.

So, if you really need to pass gas, just try to do it outside, or in the privacy of your home away from any pressurized canisters of oxygen.

Read more:

Is Farting Good For Us? What Our Flatulence Says About Our Health

Our Favorite Fart Smells Are Protecting Our Bodies From Possible Disease