You simply can not look yourself in the mirror without noticing those tiny wrinkles and saggy skin. Glycation is the name of the major cause of aging skin.

What does glycation mean? Experts will agree that glycation is actually part of the aging process, but it does not necessarily have to result in deep wrinkles and loose skin, meaning many people can actually grow old and have barely notable wrinkles. Their knowledge does the magic… Namely, glycation is the name of the chemical reaction when sugar attaches to proteins in the body.

The abundance of proteins and sugar flowing naturally in the body create another feature of the glycation. Experts name it as Advanced Glycation End products or AGES.

The latest studies have shown that the sun is not the only cause of aging skin, but the glucose that circulates in the body can be also held as responsible for those wrinkles. Sugar or glucose plays an important role as the fuel our body needs for its vital functions, but over time the excess sugar can actually cause some pretty nasty damages.

People diagnosed with diabetes who do not observe their sugar level often struggle with a number of age-related health conditions and this should be the best lesson you can get regarding the chronic glucose exposure.

Glycation may be also referred as caramelization of the bodily tissue, or even ‘Browning Reaction.’ Roast potatoes and fried chicken can be excellent examples of what really happens in your organism, just at a slower pace. Same as these foods, you too have sugar and proteins that create this chemical reaction.

AGES does not apply to your physical appearance only, but also to the number of health issues, including heart diseases, kidney failure and cataracts. The most damaging aspect of glycation is its ability to change the shape and function of the bodily tissues.

For example, glycation caused by excess sugar can stiffen and harden blood vessels — arteries, simply through the circulation of the excess sugar in the body.

Flexible cardiovascular system is crucial for optimal health. The molecules in protein and fat have fixed structure and even a minor change in that structure, for example with glycation, can disrupt the normal function of both fat and protein.

What causes AGES?

— Excess sugar (in all forms)

— Excess carbohydrate intake – all forms

— Cooking on high temperature, including frying, baking, roasting, grilling, etc., meaning all those crispy potatoes, meat chunks…

— Insufficient intake of veggies, nuts, seeds, fruits rich in antioxidants that protect tissues

— Insufficient intake of supplements important for the prevention of oxidized cells and glycation