We never look for reasons to stop eating sweets, but they continue to come up with them anyhow to rain on our parade. Here is one though that might have you scrambling to get rid of all traces of them from your home. The British Journal of Dermatology published a 2007 study, which has found that the effects of eating too much sugar start showing on the skin around age 35 and become more noticeable with time.
How Does Sugar Cause Wrinkles?
Sugar naturally initiates a process known as glycation. Glycation is the same chemical reaction that turns meat brown as it is being cooked. Sugars combine with tissues to form advanced glycation end products, or AGEs. These molecules destroy collagen and elastin – two key materials that keep skin flexible and elastic. They also damage vital organs including the brain and kidneys. In addition, AGEs puts a person at further risk for sun damage which consequently speeds up glycation.
What Are Some Sources of AGEs?
You’re right in thinking that candy, soda and other sugary desserts are likely causes for AGEs, but that’s not all. Foods with high glycemic levels like pastas, potatoes, and white bread are also at fault because they are changed to sugars when they hit your bloodstream.
How Do I Reverse AGE Damage?
1) Cut back on sugary and starchy foods. This will slow the glycation process. (Remember, everything in moderation.)
2) Incorporate antioxidants into your diet. Tomatoes, greens, pomegranates, red grapes and countless other fruits and veggies help fight free radicals caused by sun exposure.
3) Increase collagen production. Using prescription retinoids such as Tazorac, Retin-A or Differin can successfully boost collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
How do you feel about this study? Will it stop you from eating too much sugar from this point forward?
LJohnsonon July 02 2009 23:26:03
Wow I never knew about this connection, sugars= wrinkles? Who would have guessed.
To answer you question...um...I think not lol. I might slack off. I got a couple of years before I turn 35!
Yummiebearzzon July 03 2009 01:10:44
Wow this is very depressing
DebbieSon July 03 2009 05:54:56
This is really depressing. While I know I need to get my sweet tooth under control I never realized it could cause more than just weight gain. I hope it's not true.
scribbleson July 04 2009 14:58:26
Omg that is depressing news.
molly3on July 05 2009 09:12:50
yikes! I'm in trouble
Maria_M27on July 08 2009 15:22:42
I know, but take it with a grain of salt. Another study might come out saying the opposite. So my advice is to eat every once in a while or as often as you want, just in moderation.
