The Age of Sugar

Advanced glycation endproducts are formed when glucose (sugar) reacts with proteins in the walls of your blood vessels. The result is a hard caramel-like compound that interferes with multiple cell functions by changing the functions of proteins. Crosslinking occurs between adjacent protein strands and causes the blood vessels to become stiff.

AGEs can cause a rise in C-reactive protein and homocysteine levels. They can also modify LDL cholesterol so that it becomes more easily oxidized and deposited in vessel walls - which can cause narrowing and reduced blood flow. Diabetics are at particular risk since AGEs can cause complications like kidney disease, peripheral neuropathy and atherosclerosis.

While there is no way to measure AGEs, if you eat large quantities of refined sugar, you can safely assume that your body is creating too many of these damaging compounds. But sugar isn't the only culprit. Other "white" foods like bread, potatoes or pasta also contribute to the formation of AGEs.

So, how much of a threat are AGEs? Animal studies have shown that if dietary AGE intake is cut in half, the animals had an increased lifespan. A good place for us humans to start is by reducing the amount of refined sugar we consume. That means tossing out the sugar bowl and reading labels to find hidden sugar.

Cut Crosslinking With Carnosine

Since it's almost impossible to avoid all added sugar - and since the biological impact of AGEs are largely irreversible - it's a good idea to bolster your defenses against their damaging effects. One way to do this is by supplementing with carnosine.

This small molecule composed of the amino acids histidine and alanine helps defend the body's proteins against the crippling effects of glycation. By preventing the formation of dangerous AGEs, carnosine may help the body's proteins retain their youthful vigor and function. Studies also show that carnosine is a powerful antioxidant. Carnosine's age-defying effects make this critical nutrient an essential cornerstone of every anti-aging program.

Carnosine is a safe, well-tolerated nutrient that is naturally present in the brain and skeletal tissue. But, even though the body contains its own supply, supplementing with additional carnosine can help protect the brain against oxygen deprivation and boost vision, especially as we age. Best of all, scientists now know that carnosine can effectively inhibit AGE formation and protein crosslinking.

Because carnosine is able to stop free radical damage and inhibit AGE formation, scientists think it may help manage a number of chronic conditions, including arthritis, ulcers, high blood pressure, adrenal dysfunction, sleep apnea, chronic inflammation, cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer's.

A Stinky Solution

Aged garlic can also help prevent the formation of AGEs. It's one reason that aged garlic supplements have gained a heart-healthy reputation. By thwarting AGEs, aged garlic reduces LDL cholesterol and improves the elasticity of blood vessel walls.

In a four-year study of 152 cardiac patients, a daily dose of 900 mg. significantly slowed the development of atherosclerosis. Another study, which measured the flexibility of the aorta of 200 patients, reported that the subjects taking garlic had more flexibility, indicating less plaque buildup.

The AGE-busting benefits of garlic are due, in large part, to a compound called allicin. This sulfur-rich substance is activated when the clove is crushed and allowed to sit for about 10 minutes. Allicin is then further broken down to a compound called ajoene, which may be the substance that inhibits atherosclerosis and blockages in blood vessels from clots.

If you're just trying to prevent future problems triggered by AGEs, try eating fresh garlic as often as possible. If you've been diagnosed with atherosclerosis or if your diet includes large amounts of refined sugar, pick up an aged garlic supplement and take 900 mg. per day.

Source : articlesbase