Cardiovascular System Physiology and Glycation

In this episode of the College of Glycation podcast, Dr. Paul Reynolds—Professor of Cell Biology and Physiology—dives into the science of glycation and its powerful role in accelerating skin aging. Glycation occurs when sugar molecules bind to proteins and fats, forming advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that damage collagen and elastin. Through AGE crosslinking, inflammatory signaling via the RAGE receptor, and increased oxidative stress, glycation quietly stiffens the skin and reduces elasticity, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and premature aging that originates at the cellular level.Dr. Reynolds connects molecular biochemistry with everyday lifestyle choices, explaining how diet, cooking methods, UV exposure, smoking, and metabolic health influence AGE accumulation in the skin. Drawing from peer-reviewed research, he outlines practical, evidence-based strategies—ranging from nutrition and antioxidants to UV protection and metabolic control—that can help slow or counteract glycation-related damage. This episode offers a clear, science-backed framework for understanding how metabolic health shows up on your skin and how targeted lifestyle interventions can support long-term skin resilience and healthy aging.Paul’s favorite yerba mate: https://ufeelgreat.com/usa/en/c/C63EE3  Paul’s favorite source for clean, earth-sourced essentials such as salt, elecrolytes, hydration, pre-workout and more. Go to https://redmond.life and use PAULSALT for 15% discount.  Paul’s favorite exogenous ketones: A high-quality option is the NSF-certified goBHB from Clean Form Nutrition, where you can use the code Paul10 for a 10% discount: https://cleanformnutrition.com/products/go-bhb Paul’s favorite allulose source: https://rxsugar.com (discount: PAUL20)  Paul’s favorite health check-up for men or women: https://blokes.co/DRPAUL (discount: DRPAUL for 50% off of labs and smart supplements and 15% off all other products)