The evils of sugar in all its forms
Quitting sugar is the skincare hack that works better than any product or treatment on the market!
There are 61 names for sugar. Agave nectar, honey, can sugar, corn syrup, dextrose, fructose, sucrose and fruit juice are a few of the more commonly recognized ones.
A high intake of refined sugar and empty carbohydrates (sugars) negatively affect the hormone insulin, causing an increase in oil production and inflammation, which are both linked to acne, as well as glycation which is linked to premature wrinkle formation, discoloration and skin laxity.
Artificial sweeteners, like aspartame, saccharin, Stevia, and Sucralose cause blood sugar spikes, raise insulin levels, alter the balance of your gut bacteria causing digestive problems by fueling the growth of bad bacteria, yeast and candida. Excess sugars consumption natural and artificial cause hormone disruption and inflammation breaking down collagen and elastin, contributing to hyperpigmentation, acne, rosacea and eczema.
What Is Glycation And How Does It Affect Your Skin?
Glycation is a natural but damaging process that occurs when sugar molecules, like glucose and fructose bind to proteins in the skin – particularly collagen and elastin. These proteins are responsible for keeping your skin firm, smooth and elastic. When sugars bind to them, they form Advanced Glycation End Products (AGE’s), which negatively affect the skin’s structure and function. Here’s how glycation affects your skin and how to minimize its impact.
How does glycation contribute to skin aging?
- Loss of Elasticity – The binding of sugars to collagen and elastin makes these proteins stiff and less flexible, leading to loss of skin elasticity. This can make the skin appear more saggy and prone to wrinkles.
- Dullness and Uneven Tone – AGEs contribute to a reduction in the skin’s natural radiance, leading to a dull complexion and uneven skin tone.
- Increased Wrinkling – As glycation weakens the structural integrity of the skin’s protein network, it accelerates the formation of wrinkles and fine lines, especially in areas prone to movement like around the eyes and mouth.
- Inflammation and Oxidative Stress – AGEs promote inflammation and oxidative stress, further damaging skin cells, compromising the skin’s barrier, and accelerating aging.
How is glycation accelerated?
- High Sugar Diets – Diets high in processed sugars and refined carbs fuel the glycation process, leading to increased AGE formation.
- UV Exposure – Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can accelerate glycation by increasing the formation of AGEs in the skin.
How Can Glycation Be Prevented?
- Reduce Sugar Intake – Cutting back on sugary foods, refined carbohydrates, and processed sugars can help lower glucose levels in your bloodstream, preventing excessive glycation. Over time, your skin will improve.
- Eat a Balanced Diet – Focus on a diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and protein to support collagen and elastin health. Vitamins A, C, and E, along with polyphenols found in fruits and vegetables, combat oxidative stress and support healthy skin.
- Exercise Regularly – Physical activity improves circulation, helps maintain overall skin health, and reduces the impact of glycation. Stimulating blood flow ensures your skin cells receive oxygen and nutrients.
- Protect Your Skin from UV Rays – Always apply sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection to shield your skin from harmful UV rays, which can accelerate glycation. Mineral sunscreens outperform chemical sunscreens and reduce your body’s overall chemical load.
- Use Anti-Glycation Skincare Products – Look for products containing antioxidants, peptides, or AGE inhibitors. Ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, and niacinamide promote collagen production and protect against free radical damage. Avoid over-the-counter skincare products; opt for pharmaceutical-grade concentrated products for effective results.
If you need something sweet, choose fruits lower in sugar content, such as blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, lemons, limes, and grapefruit. Refined flour, found in products like white bread, pastries, and many processed foods, contributes to blood sugar spikes because it is quickly broken down into glucose once it enters the body.
