By Hannah Whittenly
Many people have heard that Stem Cells are heavily researched by the medical community and about their marvelous potential for the treatment of some of the human race’s most difficult medical conditions. This information is largely centered on Embryonic Stem Cells (EST) and can provoke strong reactions from proponents and detractors alike. However, there is a lot more to the Stem Cell story than the controversial EST research might suggest.
About Stem Cells
Also called somatic cells, adult stem cells can be found in every child and adult person. They are simply undifferentiated cells that are found throughout the body in nearly every organ and tissue. A strict definition of a stem cell requires that it has two main properties: 1) the ability to copy itself while still being undifferentiated, and 2) the ability to reproduce cells of different types. Research involving adult stem cells has not generated the same level of controversy because it does not require the destruction of an embryo.
The Potential Health Benefits
Because of the ability of stem cells to reproduce and become healthy cells of different types, they are thought to help the body repair itself. Some researchers suggest that there is a link between overall health and the number of stem cells that a person has circulating through their body. It has also been suggested that stem cells can increase muscle recovery and prevent the development of organ dysfunction.
Stem Cell Supplement Theory
Because of their potential for supporting human health and healing, there has been a great deal of study surrounding ways to promote the bodies’ natural stem cell health. There are currently nutritional supplements on the market and in development that may improve a person’s stem cell health. These supplements claim to work in three important ways. The first is to support the natural release of adult stem cells. Next, they increase the number of circulating stem cells which allows them to more effectively reach their target tissue. Finally, the supplements are thought to help stem cells enter the tissues more efficiently. Companies like StemVida International are focusing on providing these supplements to the mainstream consumer market.
While there has historically been a great deal of controversy surrounding Embryonic Stem Cells, the research surrounding adult stem cells is significantly different. This research is focused entirely on the adult stem cells present in every person. It includes studies into how those cells function in our bodies as well as ways to naturally strengthen a person’s stem cell health. The research and development of these types of supplements may be the fastest growing branch of nutritional research.