Today, I'd like to shed some light on a topic that intersects with inflammation:

A topic I learned about at a private hormone clinic I was invited to in Arizona. Techinical but had EVERYTHING to do with inflammation in our bodies.

Glycotoxins and how they are involved in a process called glycation.

Glycotoxins are compounds that form in our bodies as a result of the glycation process. So what exactly is glycation? Glycation is a non-enzymatic reaction between sugars and proteins or lipids. 

Essentially, it's the bonding of sugar molecules to proteins or fats without the control of an enzyme (nothing to break it down). 

This process occurs naturally in our bodies but can also be accelerated by high blood sugar levels, as seen in conditions like diabetes.

The end result of glycation is the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These AGEs can wreak havoc in our bodies, particularly in the context of inflammation. They contribute to inflammation through several mechanisms:

Understanding the role of glycotoxins in inflammation highlights the importance of adopting a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle to mitigate their effects and promote overall well-being.

Summary:

Glycation’s role in inflammation

• AGEs
  • Cooking foods at high temperatures results in glycotoxins
  • Most “junk foods” are high in glycotoxins
  • Normal aging can be regarded as a slow cooking process
• Glycotoxins induce low-grade, chronic inflammation
• High glycemic foods produce insulin surges, contributing to chronic inflammation

Supplements to reduce inflammation:

Suggested daily intake of EPA + DHA

• Maintenance ~ 2.5 gm

Reduce chronic inflammation 5 – 10 gm

Anti-Inflammatory

• Fish oil (EPA, DHA) 2500-10000 mg/d
• Vitamin D3 2000-10000 IU/d
• Curcumin  500-4000  mg/d 
• Quercitin 500-1600 mg/d
• Ginger 1000-2000 mg/d
• Bromelain 500-2000  mg/d 
• Pantothenic acid 500-2000  mg/d

Anti-Oxidants

• Vitamin C 500-3000 mg/d
• Vitamin E    400-800 IU/d
• Vitamin K          1-10 mg/d
• N-acetyl-cysteine 600-1800 mg/d
• Bilberry    100-400 mg/d
• Grape seed extract    100-300 mg/d
• Green tea extract    400-800 mg/d

Food Rich in Probiotics

• Live-cultured yogurt
• Pickled fruits & vegetables
• Tempeh
• Sauerkraut

Food Rich in Prebiotics

• Raw: onions, leak, asparagus
• Raw or cooked onion