In a recent study at the University of Rochester Medical Center, researchers determined that a compound found in the blue food dye used in M&M’s and Gatorade can help ease the effects of spinal injury.

The compound, called Brilliant Blue G (BBG), is FDA approved, which makes it a viable option for this type of treatment.

The researchers in Rochester used BBG on mice with spinal injuries, and it definitely improved their recovery. The mice were able to walk – even though they still had to limp.

Mice that were not injected with the compound after their spinal injuries did not regain their mobility.

So, what are the possible negatives to this medical advancement? The only recorded side effect: the mice turned temporarily blue.

It could be several years before any of this can be used on humans, but if the research pays off, spinal cord injury patients could see faster and more complete recoveries in the future.

To read the full story about the research, visit CNN Health.