What we consume has a direct effect on our appearance, – especially our skin –and our sweet tooth could be the biggest instigator of the dreaded signs of aging.
According to dermatologist Dr. Patricia Farris, “research shows that a diet laced with sugar and refined carbohydrates can be more ageing for the skin than a lifetime of lying in the sun.”
The process that causes our skin to age is called glycation. Glycation is a chemical process that is stimulated when blood sugar spikes too high. When blood sugar is too high, sugar molecules circulate in the blood and bind to other components to form protein-sugar complexes. These protein-sugar complexes (Advanced Glycation End-products) can be found in any and all bodily organ systems including the skin. Once in the skin, they trigger an inflammatory response, causing tissue damage and premature ageing.
Molecules like collagen and elastin are what keep us looking young. Unfortunately, they are also extremely vulnerable to the effects of too much sugar. Sugar in our blood binds to collagen and elastin, and form those advanced glycation end products, and cause the fibers of collagen and elastin to become rigid, which in turn leaves our face saggy and wrinkled.
As we age, glycation naturally occurs, but the speed of glycation is heavily influenced by our sugar intake.
In addition to premature ageing, too much sugar in our diets can cause dryness of skin, irritation, and acne.
We all knew sugar had terrible effects on our body and weight, but learning that it is the leading cause of wrinkles might just be enough reason to reluctantly put the cookies away.This doesn’t mean that we can never touch another sugary treat, but it does mean that one should be more cautious with what they put in their body.
Cut down on the sugar. You will look and feel better – and your skin will thank you for it!
