Glycation

Supplements that improve insulin sensitivity aid in controlling glycation. These include alpha-lipoic acid ( ALA), vanadium, chromium, zinc, taurine, and the herbs fenugreek and bitter gourd. Metformin ( Glucophage) is an efficient way to control the loss of insulin recepter sensitivity and resulting elevation of blood sugars levels, It also replaces the more onerous practice of calorie restriction by mimicking the effects of a reduced calorie diet. For this purpose the usual prescription is 125 mg two times a day, with lunch and dinner, which is less than 10 percent of the maximum dose prescribed for Type 2 diabetics. Aminoguanidine( brand name Wytensin), a drug normally used to lower blood pressure, is another medication that can help inhibit glycation and also support the immune system. The recommended amount is 200 mg twice daily, which is half the usual starting dose of 400 mg twice daily when it is used to treat high blood pressure. Neither of these drugs nor any other compound mentioned in this chapter eliminates the need for a lifestyle that inhibit glycation - an optimal balance of low glycemic index carbohydrates, proteins, fats, an a program of regular exercise.