Shanaya and Sonam Kapoor have similar pieces of advice for those of you who’d like to maintain that radiant, youthful glow for all the years to come. It’s simple. But you might have a hard time digesting it. Because this isn’t going to be sweet.
The Kapoors recommend avoiding foods containing a lot of sugar. Sonam even opts for fruits and vegetables that aren’t sugary. But not for the reasons you believe. Did you know that sugar can affect the way your skin looks — and not in a way that’ll wow you. I’ve even roped in Dr. Madhuri Agrawal, Founder and Medical Director of Yavana Skin Aesthetic, to make my case. Here’s what I found.
What Sugar Can Do To The Skin
Too much sugar can lead to the depletion of collagen in our bodies: a protein responsible for the firmness and elasticity of our skin. This is because the sugar in your bloodstream triggers glycation; a reaction that causes the carbohydrate’s molecules to attach themselves to collagen. This linking leads to the formation of ‘free’ radicals, and thus, oxidative stress and damage in the body.
That’s why your skin looks fatigued and dull after you’ve consumed something sugary. You might even have a run-in with acne flare-ups and inflammation in the process. The more sugar you consume, the more glycation, and the faster your skin ages. This is commonly seen in those with diabetes because they have a harder time controlling their blood-sugar levels.
According to Dr. Agrawal, “Sugar causes an inflammatory response leading to activation of the immune system, DNA damage, and the generation of free radicals that can eventually precipitate collagen depletion. The collagen hardens and fragments with the consumption of a high sugar diet.”
The best thing you can do for yourself is follow Sonam and Shanaya’s advice. Just cut down on your intake, and you’re good.
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