Posts Tagged ‘Advocate’
New uses for fat cells – stem cell research, breast augmentation
Stem cell research has always been a controversial subject, especially in the US. One of the big reasons is the use of aborted fetuses for these purposes. And abortion is a touchy issue. Obesity is also a touchy issue, but in a different way. Whereas, there are personal, religious, emotive forces behind the pros and cons of abortion, no one would ever argue that obesity is a good thing. However, those who are obese may feel some powerful negative connotations that are degrading.
Given that, it might be good news to these people that scientists have found that they can create stem cell lines more efficiently with adipose tissues. Since one-third of Americans are classified as overweight or obese, scientists will have more than adequate resources from which to make stem cells. Should further research reveal that these adipose tissues can be harvested from people and be used towards research and development of cures for numerous medical diseases, then the negative connotations may be turned into something more positive.
Obese people who donate their fat cells may be hailed as heroes to those suffering from chronic medical problems who are awaiting cures. Furthermore, the donation of those cells may help them lose some of their weight, thereby reducing their health risks. It seems to be a win-win situation for all if it develops that future stem cell research will be focused on using adipose tissue.
In other news, scientists are looking at using women’s own fat tissue from various body parts to be used in breast augmentation. Sounds like it would be a lot safer than saline/silicone alternatives. Not only that, it can help reshape a woman’s figure. Though I am no advocate for breast augmentation, I think the idea is a good one. I’d prefer it if my body could redistribute the fat that way naturally.
Sleeping separately may save lives (and sanity)
As mentioned many times before, sleep is extremely important to your health. There are various factors that contribute to a poor night of sleep, and though it may be acknowledged in private before, a doctor has now publicly stated that sleeping in separate beds may be good (or even better) for married couples.
For some couples, I believe that’s very true. Issues of snoring, blanket-hogging and movement can be disturbing for the partner, which results in poor sleep. It is especially the case when the partner is a light sleeper.
I know from experience that having kids join you in the night is extremely annoying. I also know that my husband would prefer to sleep in his own bed – no disturbances from anyone. I, on the other hand, would prefer to sleep with my husband. Yes, we end up disrupting each other’s sleep, but there’s also a sense of security knowing that someone is there.
We’ve done the sleeping separately deal. I can’t speak for him, but I really haven’t noticed that my sleep hygiene is any better. I do notice that there is less waking up in the night, but it is not nil. That may just be a function of the bed I sleep on. In any case, the jury’s still out on this.
At least the doctor didn’t advocate that all married couples sleep separately. It would only be a consideration if there were some serious sleep issues involved. And it need not be a permanent state. I have to admit that we both have sleep issues and are constantly tired. But, the first step would be to get decent beds.
