Why Glycation May Be the Missing Link in Long-Term Weight Management

This is a summary of a research paper published on Zenodo. For those who want the full scientific explanation, read and download the complete white paper: Understanding Glycation: Membrane Integrity, Metabolism, and the Role of Ketosis

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We’re excited to share a new white paper from, founder of the Ideal Protein Protocol. In this work, Dr. Tran shines a light on one of the least understood yet most impactful drivers of metabolic dysfunction: protein glycation and its role in insulin resistance. Most weight-loss strategies focus on what to reduce - calories, carbs, hunger, or whether to add medication. But as Dr. Tran explains, if we don’t address one of the root causes of insulin resistance, any approach remains incomplete and far more likely to fail over time.

What’s happening inside the body?

When sugar remains elevated, glucose slowly attaches to proteins throughout the body: a process called glycation. Over time, this reaction stiffens cell membranes, disrupts insulin receptors, and fuels inflammation and oxidative stress.

The result?

• Cells respond poorly to insulin

• Metabolism becomes less efficient

• Inflammation and cellular aging accelerate

• Weight loss becomes harder, and regaining weight is more likely

Why this matters for weight loss

Suppressing appetite on its own, whether through medication or restrictive dieting, does not fix the underlying imbalance.

If glycation continues unchecked, the cellular environment remains resistant to change. Dr. Tran’s white paper explains why a structured, medically guided, temporary ketogenic approach, like the Ideal Protein Protocol:

• Reduces glucose availability (less substrate for glycation)

• Supports healthier membrane function

• Lowers oxidative stress

• Helps restore hormonal and metabolic responsiveness

This is why Ideal Protein has always been more than a diet. It’s a targeted metabolic intervention designed to address why the weight problem exists - not just the number on the scale.

Why this matters today

In a world increasingly shaped by GLP-1 medications, DIY keto, and short-term fixes, the Ideal Protein Protocol remains uniquely grounded in science. This new publication further reinforces the clinical relevance and long-term value of coaching clients through a structured metabolic reset.

This work reflects Ideal Protein’s ongoing commitment to scientific leadership and gives you a powerful tool to educate clients, strengthen your expertise, and elevate your coaching impact.