Skip to content

Language

Food and Skin

Food and Skin

HOW SUGAR AFFECTS THE SKIN

 

Sugar can have several effects on your skin, including: 

 

  • Exacerbation of inflammatory skin conditions
Sugar causes your blood sugar levels to rise and a high spike in insulin, which in turn, increases inflammation inside the body. Therefore, those who suffer from inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis, rosacea, or eczema, this inflammation can trigger or exacerbate your symptoms.
  • Premature aging
Because sugar breaks down collagen and elastin––the proteins that give your skin shape, structure, and firmness––skin may start to look prematurely wrinkled, saggy, dry, and dull. Keep in mind that as we naturally age, we lose collagen and elastin…so it’s a good idea not to make it worse!
  • Acne breakouts
Similar to inflammatory conditions,  blood sugar spikes can also trigger all types of breakouts. Additionally, high blood sugar levels cause your body to create more sebum, which equally contributes to acne breakouts.

 

WHAT’S THE FIX?  / LA SOLUTION ? 

 

While we know it’s hard (and sad) to avoid sugar altogether, there are a few things you can do to minimize its effects. 

 

For example, recognizing “hidden sugars” that hide under names such as high fructose corn syrup, barley malt, maltodextrin, and more. It is also a good idea to cut down on sugary drinks (think fruit juices, cocktails, and Frappuccinos!), replace processed foods with natural foods, and avoid processed snacks like muffins, cookies, and candies. When a sweet tooth craving hits, try replacing your junk food with natural sugars from berries, fruits, sweet potatoes, carrots, Greek yogurt, and other whole foods!

 

HOW FAST FOODS AFFECT THE SKIN

 

In the same light, fast foods also contribute to the same problems. Because of its high fat content, fast foods can cause anything from acne to irritation, redness, itchiness, excessive oiliness (which leads to dryness), and more!

 

The high levels of sodium in most fast foods and processed meals can also lead to swelling of the face and under-eye puffiness, as it can cause your body to retain water. 

 

THE FIX? 

 

You know it’s not good for you, but sometimes you cave in. It’s all good––we’ve all been there!

 

The idea is not to indulge on a regular basis. Continue your good habits, like a well-established skincare routine, drinking enough water, sleeping adequately as well as consuming colorful fruits and vegetables––they are the foods that contain antioxidants that will help you glow from the inside out!

 

On that note, take care of the skin you are in!

 

Until next time,

 

The BSE team

 

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published.