Dr. Perricone went on to explain, “I believe that stress is the most destructive AGE-accelerating force. AGE stands for Advanced Glycation End Products. They result from a process in our bodies in which proteins attach to sugar molecules. These glycated proteins lose their suppleness and flexibility becoming stiff and inflexible.Stress notwithstanding, eating sugary, starchy foods is also a significant component of AGE formation. Unfortunately, stress, whether physical from lack of sleep, or psychological due to stressful situations at work or at home, causes us to crave these types of high carbohydrate, high fat junk food.”

And, there's more: “AGES are the root of accelerated aging and age-related illness in every system of the body. They have been implicated in wrinkles, age-related memory loss, Alzheimer's, heart disease, kidney disease, cancer, diabetes, cataracts, and more—all good reasons to find ways to lower stress. It affects everyone and it is important to understand all the ramifications of letting stress get the better of us. Stress contributes to a great many negative effects, including the instigation of certain hormonal changes in the body, which rapidly alters the function of the cells in the vital organs. Ultimately, these effects are reflected in the appearance of your skin. Stress has a direct impact on blood glucose levels and AGE formation through its relation to the stress hormone cortisol.”

Today, in honor of National Stress Awareness Day, Girlawhirl intends to take a second to slow down and fight stress. Dr. Perricone suggests spending time with a pet, doing yoga or enjoying nature by taking a walk outside.

Girlawhirl already clicked through to her online shopping mall to purchase Dr. Perricone's book, Ageless Face, Ageless Mind: Erase Wrinkles and Rejuvenate the Brain, to find out more about AGES and how she can fight them.

Girlawhirl Giveaway! A copy of Ageless Face, Ageless Mind: Erase Wrinkles and Rejuvenate the Brain by Dr. Nicholas Perricone is part of this week's Girlawhirl Giveaway! You're already registered if you've signed up once and have a girlawhirl login. Not registered? sign up.