Does your diet
actually affect your skin?
Let's separate fact from fiction
Yes and no. When it comes to diet things can get a bit complex but we’ve done the work for you to break down how exactly your diet may be affecting your skin and what you can about it.
To be clear, no singular diet is going to magically provide you with clear, glowing skin. There are a lot of factors that can affect it from genetics and hormone imbalance to your skin simply coming into contact with acne-causing bacteria. But, there is a bit of truth to the fact that diets laden with tons of refined sugars, heavy carbohydrates, and fried foods can start to make an appearance on your skin. This can manifest itself in the form of excess oil production, increased blemishes, and even fine lines and sagging skin. Let’s break down the main culprits.
SUGAR
We’re sure you’ve heard this before but increased sugar consumption can have a harmful effect on your skin. In fact, diets rich in refined sugar have been shown to increase breakouts and lead to premature aging from a complex process called glycation. Glycation is a chemical reaction in which the overflowing amount of sugar in the bloodstream binds with our healthy proteins and inhibits their ability to function properly.
You can think of this process similar to the way in which free radicals can damage healthy cells but you can replace the free radicals with sugar. This process creates unstable and damaging molecules called Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs). They accelerate the aging process leading to fine lines and wrinkles, loss of collagen and elastin, as well as a loss of radiance.
Don’t throw out your cookies just yet! You can indulge in your favorite desserts without irreparably damaging the skin. Next time you’re craving sweets, try reaching for a healthy fruit instead this can help to soothe those cravings while providing your body with a healthier source of sugar.
DAIRY
Dealing with an excessive amount of acne or uncontrollable oil production? Your dairy habit might be to blame! Research has shown that consuming dairy can lead to hormone spikes that increase oil production and inflammation which can then lead to acne. But, keep in mind that this may or may not happen with you.
The way the skin reacts to dairy is dependent on the individual. There are tons of people who can consume dairy and be worry-free when it comes to skin issues so don’t feel the need to avoid dairy just because it may cause acne in some people. But, if your skincare routine is in check and you are still experiencing breakouts it might be worth it to try abstaining from dairy for a bit to see if your skin improves.
LONG STORY SHORT
Despite some of the effects these ingredients may have on your skin it doesn’t mean you have to ditch them completely but rather re-shape your diet to allow for more healthy veggies, fruits, and complex carbs while indulging in your favorite junk foods from time to time. But, to reiterate there are many factors going on behind the scenes that create the skin you’re in so diet alone will never be able to transform it. You need to combine your diet with a healthy skincare routine to achieve your skin goals.😉
LONG STORY SHORT
Despite some of the effects these ingredients may have on your skin it doesn’t mean you have to ditch them completely but rather re-shape your diet to allow for more healthy veggies, fruits, and complex carbs while indulging in your favorite junk foods from time to time. But, to reiterate there are many factors going on behind the scenes that create the skin you’re in so diet alone will never be able to transform it. You need to combine your diet with a healthy skincare routine to achieve your skin goals.😉
Comments (0)