Understanding Glycation: The Silent Culprit Behind Aging and Chronic Diseases

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Glycation, a term often overshadowed by buzzwords like "antioxidants" or "inflammation," is gaining significant attention thanks to health experts like Jessie Inchauspé, popularly known as the Glucose Goddess, along with a growing number of nutrition scientists and health advocates. This natural biochemical process has been identified as one of the key drivers of aging, chronic diseases, and metabolic disorders.

What is Glycation?

At its core, glycation occurs when sugar molecules attach themselves to proteins or fats without enzymatic regulation. This reaction forms Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs), harmful compounds that accelerate cellular aging, impair organ function, and contribute to diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions.

In simpler terms, every time your blood sugar spikes—whether from indulging in sugary snacks, refined carbs, or overeating—these sugar molecules roam freely in your bloodstream, wreaking havoc on essential proteins like collagen and elastin (key players in maintaining youthful skin and flexible joints).

Jessie Inchauspé's Take on Glycation

Jessie Inchauspé, in her research and books like "The Glucose Revolution," emphasizes how managing blood sugar spikes is critical not only for diabetics but for everyone. According to her, glycation is one of the main reasons uncontrolled glucose levels are so damaging.

Spikes vs. Steady Glucose Levels: Frequent blood sugar spikes lead to more glycation, while maintaining steady glucose levels can reduce the production of harmful AGEs.

Real-Life Impacts: From sagging skin and premature wrinkles to damaged arteries and poor brain function, the effects of glycation are pervasive.

The Science Behind Glycation and AGEs

When AGEs accumulate in your body, they bind to receptors called RAGEs (Receptors for Advanced Glycation End-products). This interaction triggers inflammation and oxidative stress, two primary drivers of chronic diseases.

Health experts also point out that glycation isn’t limited to internal processes. Dietary AGEs—formed when food is cooked at high temperatures (like frying, grilling, or roasting)—can add to the glycation burden in the body.

Examples of High-AGE Foods:

Fried foods (e.g., french fries, fried chicken)

Grilled meats (especially with charred edges)

Baked goods with refined sugars

How to Minimize Glycation in Daily Life

Jessie Inchauspé and other health experts recommend actionable strategies to combat glycation:

Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels:

Eat a fiber-rich appetizer (like a salad) before your main meal.

Include protein and healthy fats with every meal.

Avoid sugary drinks and refined carbohydrates.

Cook Smart:

Opt for steaming, boiling, or slow-cooking instead of frying or grilling.

Marinate meat with lemon juice or vinegar before cooking to reduce AGE formation.

Intermittent Fasting and Exercise:

Both intermittent fasting and regular physical activity help the body manage blood sugar more effectively.

Supplements and Antioxidants:

Nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) have been shown to reduce glycation damage.

Why Glycation Matters for Everyone

Glycation isn't just a concern for diabetics or older adults—it affects everyone. Whether you’re focused on glowing skin, sharp cognitive function, or simply living a longer, healthier life, understanding and minimizing glycation is essential.

Jessie Inchauspé’s approach provides a roadmap: small, consistent changes in your diet and lifestyle can drastically reduce glycation and its harmful effects.

Final Thoughts

While glycation might not be a household term yet, it’s one of the most significant processes affecting health and longevity. By embracing science-backed strategies, monitoring glucose levels, and making informed food choices, you can keep glycation—and its harmful effects—at bay.

In the words of Jessie Inchauspé, “Stable glucose isn’t just about preventing diabetes—it’s about living better, longer, and healthier.”

Jessie Inchauspé, known as the Glucose Goddess, has been actively sharing information about glycation and its health impacts through various platforms. She released her debut book, "Glucose Revolution: The Life-Changing Power of Balancing Your Blood Sugar," in April 2022, where she discusses the importance of glucose regulation and introduces her "glucose hacks." 

In May 2023, she published her second book, "The Glucose Goddess Method: The 4-Week Guide to Cutting Cravings, Getting Your Energy Back, and Feeling Amazing," which focuses on practical strategies to manage glucose levels. 

Additionally, Jessie has shared insights on glycation through her social media channels. For instance, in November 2024, she posted a video on Instagram discussing the process of glycation. 

Therefore, the information about glycation has been released by Jessie Inchauspé over several years, with notable publications in April 2022, May 2023, and social media content as recent as November 2024.

DepEd, DOST team up to strengthen Science Education

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In a unified push for science and innovation, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) affirmed their commitment to collaborate during the appointment ceremony of the new campus directors of the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) on Thursday.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara and Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. underscored the importance of working together to advance science education and cultivate the next generation of scientists and innovators.

“We are fully committed to working together. One thing we discovered nandoon sa kanta ninyo yung ang siyensiya ang sandigan ng maunlad na bayan. That’s the bottomline here,” Secretary Angara said, referring to the DOST Hymn.

Sec. Angara also underscored DOST’s mandates, as he helped the agency secure additional budget for its facilities and operations.

“Dati supporter niyo po ako sa Senado at ngayon consider me one of your fans. Maraming salamat and congratulations. Looking forward to the inspired leadership of our three campus directors under our great Secretary Rene,” he said.

Secretary Solidum, meanwhile, said that the team-up with DepEd is a significant step in strengthening the country’s science, technology, and innovation foundation.

“We are very happy with the appointment of former Senator, now DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, because we believe that the success of science, technology, and innovation really lies in our educational system starting from our youth,” Secretary Solidum said.

“We have been discussing on how we can work together with them and help them as well in making sure that our reach would go beyond the Philippine Science High School system,” he added.

The ceremony celebrated the appointment of three campus directors: Dr. Rod Allan A. De Lara (PSHS - Main Campus), Dr. Myrna B. Libutaque (PSHS - Western Visayas Campus), and Dr. Mary Grace A. Navarro (PSHS - Ilocos Region Campus). Both secretaries acknowledged their pivotal role in shaping young minds to contribute to the nation’s scientific progress.

The event, held at the PSHSS Main Campus in Quezon City, was graced by key officials from DepEd, DOST, and PSHSS.

The Manila Mayoral Race 2025: A Fierce Competition Between Honey Lacuna, Isko Moreno, and Sam Versoza

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As the 2025 Mayoral elections approach, the city of Manila is bracing itself for a competitive race that will have a lasting impact on the nation’s capital. Three names have emerged as the primary contenders for the coveted position of mayor: the incumbent Mayor Honey Lacuna, former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, and businessman Sam Versoza. Each candidate brings with them a unique blend of experience, education, and leadership qualities, making this election one of the most hotly contested in recent memory. Let’s delve into the backgrounds, career experiences, educational attainments, and prominent qualities of each contender and see how they stack up against one another.

1. Honey Lacuna: The Incumbent Mayor with Medical Expertise and a Focus on Public Health

Background & Educational Attainment: Honey Lacuna has been serving as the first female mayor of Manila since 2022. Prior to her appointment, she was a renowned medical professional, working as a doctor specializing in internal medicine. Lacuna holds a degree in Medicine, which plays a significant role in her leadership style, especially in tackling public health issues.

Career Experience: Lacuna's career trajectory is grounded in public service. Before becoming mayor, she was a vice mayor for several terms, which provided her a thorough understanding of the city’s local governance and infrastructure. As the current mayor, she has been lauded for her decisive leadership during the pandemic, implementing effective health protocols and overseeing the city’s vaccination campaign. Her medical background has allowed her to take a proactive stance on health and welfare, garnering support from residents who value her approach to maintaining public safety and health standards.

Prominent Qualities:

Empathy and Focus on Health: Lacuna’s background in medicine has made her a compassionate leader who prioritizes public health, education, and welfare.

Experienced in Governance: With her years as vice mayor, she is no stranger to the inner workings of Manila’s local government.

Gender Equality Advocate: As the city’s first female mayor, Lacuna is a champion for women’s rights and empowerment.

2. Isko Moreno: A Former Mayor with Proven Administrative Leadership

Background & Educational Attainment: Isko Moreno, the former mayor of Manila (2019-2022), was once a prominent actor before transitioning into public service. Known for his humble beginnings, he grew up in the slums of Tondo and worked his way up, eventually earning a degree in Public Administration from the University of the Philippines.

Career Experience: Isko’s rise to power was meteoric. Before becoming mayor, he was the vice mayor of Manila and served as a city councilor. His tenure as mayor was marked by major reforms, including the modernization of Manila’s public markets, the beautification of city streets, and the efficient handling of the pandemic. His previous experience in local governance combined with his youth and energy helped him make rapid changes within Manila’s bureaucracy, which earned him praise from both residents and critics alike.

Prominent Qualities:

Proven Leadership: Moreno is a leader who has already proven his ability to drive administrative reforms and modernize the city.

Strong Communication Skills: His ability to connect with the masses, stemming from his acting career, gives him a unique advantage in mass outreach.

Urban Development Visionary: Known for his vision of a cleaner, more modern Manila, he has laid the groundwork for a more cosmopolitan city.

3. Sam Versoza: The Young Businessman with a Vision for Transformation

Background & Educational Attainment: Sam Versoza is the least known of the three candidates in terms of political experience but stands out with his background in business and entrepreneurship. Versoza holds a degree in Business Administration and has extensive experience running various enterprises. His outsider perspective offers a fresh approach to the city’s governance.

Career Experience: Though not directly involved in politics, Versoza has been active in various charitable initiatives and urban development projects. He is known for his advocacy of a more inclusive and sustainable economic framework. Versoza’s business acumen positions him as someone capable of transforming Manila into a business-friendly metropolis, driving both economic growth and social welfare.

Prominent Qualities:

Business Expertise: Versoza brings a pragmatic, results-driven mindset to the table, focused on economic recovery and growth.

Young and Innovative: With his youth and background in business, he is eager to implement new, innovative approaches to governance.

Passionate Advocate for Social Change: While he may not have formal political experience, his focus on urban renewal, sustainability, and economic development has gained him a following among younger voters and business leaders.

The Road Ahead: What to Expect

With three strong and distinct personalities vying for the mayoralty, the upcoming race will not only determine the future direction of Manila but also set a precedent for how the city adapts to changing times. Honey Lacuna’s focus on health and safety, Isko Moreno’s experience in urban reform, and Sam Versoza’s fresh business-oriented vision will undoubtedly make for an engaging electoral battle. Voters will need to weigh the candidates' backgrounds, experience, and leadership styles carefully to choose the one who can best lead Manila into a new era.

Who will ultimately prevail in this political showdown? Time will tell, but one thing is for certain—the future of Manila is in the hands of its people, and the competition for the mayoralty has never been more thrilling.