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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2009
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7

Blue Food Dye May Help Treat Spinal Injury

M&M coloring, if taken in time, could reduce paralysis, study finds

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(Newser) – A dye used to color blue M&Ms and Gatorade may have a higher calling: Scientists say it could help treat spinal-cord injury, ScienceBlog reports. After a spinal injury, a chemical called ATP, usually key to cells’ health, rushes to the site and kills cells, worsening paralysis. With more research, Brilliant Blue G dye may be able to halt the process—if it’s administered in time.

Gatorade can contain Brilliant Blue G dye.
Gatorade can contain Brilliant Blue G dye.   (AP Photo)
Blue M&Ms may hold a secret weapon in the fight against paralysis.
Blue M&Ms may hold a secret weapon in the fight against paralysis.   (Flickr)
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7 comments
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texasaurus
Jul 28, 09 11:26 AM CDT
And since we'll be taxing junk food soon, it's a win-win for everybody! Reply
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Reader38
Jul 28, 09 11:27 AM CDT
I'm terribly disappointed. I have always been deeply suspicious of blue food coloring. Reply
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IN RESPONSE:
DJM420
Jul 28, 09 11:40 AM CDT
dont be disappointed, it'll still give you cancer!! woot!! gotta love those petroleum based food additives
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+1
DeniseVB
Jul 28, 09 12:24 PM CDT
Gives new meaning to junk science. Reply
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+1
Reader60610265
Jul 28, 09 12:41 PM CDT
This is a change now food dyes can help? It's not going to help that much in an era where everything else is going to kill you. lol Reply
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+1

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