Glycation is the bonding of a sugar molecule to a protein or fat molecule. Our bodies form advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs worsen many degenerative diseases – diabetes, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, stroke, etc. AGEs are formed inside our bodies. Carbohydrates and sugars increase blood glucose. Excess blood glucose in the bloodstream forms AGEs. These AGEs are serious threats to your heart and overall health.
We also eat foods high in AGEs. AGEs can be created through the cooking processes. Frying, roasting, and baking are the predominant methods of creating AGEs. Blackened foods show the presence of AGEs. The delicious char that is present on barbecue is a form of AGE. Cigarette smoking also increases AGEs in your body.
AGEs can affect every cell in your body. They are part of the aging process. Once the bond is made between two molecules, it is not broken. However, new laboratory tests show positive results in reducing glycation end products in animals. Positive test results have been reported with isoferulic acid, carnosine, folic acid, zinc, ascorbic acid and aminoguanidine. Carnosine is found in beef, fish, and chicken. Folic acid is found in leafy green vegetables. Zinc is found in seafood, beef, lamb, spinach, and other vegetables. Ascorbic acid is found in citrus, tomatoes, strawberries and other fruits and vegetables.
AGEs cause increased oxidative damage. AGEs adhere to the interior of the blood vessels. Over time, the blood vessels become stiffer and unable to perform their normal function. AGEs interrupt normal metabolic processes and glucose control. AGEs are not good for the heart or any other part of your body.
Fructose is ten times more active in forming AGEs compared to sucrose. High fructose corn syrup is becoming more prevalent in processed foods and drinks. Fructose, in an of itself, can damage your liver over time. Avoid sugars, especially those containing fructose to reduce the continued accumulation of AGEs in the body.
Activities and nutrient options that address advanced glycation end products are:
● Stop smoking
● Maintain an ideal weight
● Eat a balanced nutrition diet
● Cook/bake foods at lower temperatures
● Avoid vegetable oils for frying
● Reduce/avoid fried foods
● Significantly reduce carbohydrates and sugars
● Reduce/eliminate high fructose corn syrup (HFCS)
● Carnosine
● Folic acid
● Ascorbic acid
● Zinc