Stem Cells Research: What You Don't Know About The Umbilical Cord

Reader's Digest is no stranger to me. This is because RD is considered as the most widely-read magazine in Asia. Plus, the topics being discussed are informative.

For that reason, Reader's Digest is always on top of my what-to-do list. Their November 2009 issue was a very interesting and enthralling one. They have featured the benefits of storing blood from the umbilical cord. As you know it, umbilical cord is rich in stem cells. Yes, it is the same umbilical cord which is considered as hospital waste. Stem cells can save you, a family member or your baby in the future.

Research showed that cord blood stem cell may be able to treat Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and diabetes. Apart from that, it may also treat diseases of the heart and spine.

So, if you are pregnant and want to save the blood from the umbilical cord when you give birth, then you must consult your doctor about it. Who knows? That blood may save someone's life.

Photo from: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jian-hua_qiao_md/3954771834/sizes/l/