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Blue Food Dye May Help Treat Spinal Injury

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

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 28, 2009 11:16 AM CDT

(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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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 3 comments
DeniseVB
Jul 28, 2009 5:24 AM CDT
Gives new meaning to junk science.
ChickenChopper
Jul 28, 2009 4:40 AM CDT
dont be disappointed, it'll still give you cancer!! woot!! gotta love those petroleum based food additives
texasaurus
Jul 28, 2009 4:26 AM CDT
And since we'll be taxing junk food soon, it's a win-win for everybody!

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