Most of us know that sugar is not the best substance to consume for overall health. The word ‘sugar’ is usually associated with calories, cavities, obesity and being overweight. Most people do not know that sugar can also cause harm to your skin. Think: wrinkles, sagginess and loss of radiance.
How does sugar affect our skin negatively? When sugar is present in the system, a process called advanced glycation takes place. During this process, sugar causes protein fibers to become stiff and malformed. The proteins in skin most prone to glycation are the same ones that make a young person’s skin look plump and vibrant. When these proteins bind with sugar they become discolored, less supple and weak. This causes sagging and wrinkling of the skin and makes the complexion more vulnerable to assailants such as UV light and cigarette smoke - causing a double-whammy effect. External signs of glycation show up around the age of 30-35 years old. At younger ages, the body produces more collagen and is able to fight glycation much easier.
So what is the solution? Never eat sugar again?? That may be easier said than done. There is sugar in most processed foods. Your best bet is to pay attention to the ingredients in the foods you eat – read the labels! Steer clear of foods with high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and eat locally grown foods that have not been pasteurized or processed. The natural enzymes that occur in non-processed foods, like fruits and vegetables can help you to live a healthier life style and to look great while doing it. If you are still not satisfied with the way your skin appears after altering your diet, try a dose of
Red Light Therapy to make your skin young and vibrant again.
