Did you know that diet and sun exposure combined are responsible for your ageing (faster than is to be normally expected). Glycation End Products (AGEs) form when protein or fat combine with sugar which accelerates ageing. While these aging culprits aren’t 100 percent in our control, using sunscreen and taking mind of your overall diet can help with how our body protects and heals our skin. So we’re bringing you a list of products to avoid that can make you age faster:
1.French Fries:
Even though these buggers really hit the spot, they contribute greatly to AGE production. They are both salty and fries, a combination that is deadly for both your health and your skin. Foods fried in oil at high temperatures release free radicals that can cause cellular damage to the skin. Exposure to free radicals accelerates the aging process due to an action called cross-linking. Cross-linking affects DNA molecules and can weaken skin’s elasticity. And to add to it, consuming too much salt can draw water out from the skin and lead to dehydration. That may make your skin more prone to wrinkling and give you “grandma lines” before time.
2.Margarine:
If it’s not butter, we don’t want it. It’s time to ditch this butter substitute NOW! The culprit in margarine is trans fat, which destroys hydration. The less your skin is hydrated, the faster the wrinkles appear.
3.Energy Drinks:
Energy drinks are very high in sugar and very acidic, which can damage teeth and leave them more prone to stains that will age your smile. Plus, their high caffeine and sodium content can lead to dehydration, especially if you are drinking them instead of water. So ditch these drinks and opt for water instead – 8 to 10 glasses of water!
4.Baked Goods
We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s time to step away from those cupcakes and pastries NOW. Baked goods and other sweets are often rich in added sugars and fat, which can lead to weight gain and poor dental health. Sugar promotes an unhealthy microbiome and it is also pro-inflammatory. All of these characteristics can accelerate the aging process.
5.White Sugar
White sugar has been known to cause breakouts, but it can heavily cause the products of AGEs. Sugar causes inflammation, which is a major inhibitor to having clear, beautiful skin. To make matters worse, sugar also damages collagen and elastin, which keeps the skin looking soft and supple. Try opting for real fruits instead to satisfy your sweet cravings.
6.Fried Fast Food:
Ever wonder what goes into your favourite nuggets or chicken strips? Restaurants will typically use corn oil, one of the unhealthiest oils. When consumed, it releases free radicals in the body. Free radical damage or oxidative stress has numerous effects on health and well-being, including heart disease and wrinkles. If you simply can’t avoid eating out, opt for healthier options like salads or sandwiches.
7.Coffee
High in caffeine, your average cup of coffee affects your sleep routine. Poor sleep has been linked to increased signs of aging and more dark eye circles, wrinkles, and fine lines.
8.Spicy Food
Does this mean that you can’t enjoy your good ol’ spicy plate of biryani? Of course not. We’re asking you to limit the spice in your life. Spicy foods can cause rosacea on your skin since it dilates the blood vessels. This, in turn, can cause skin to look red, blotchy, and less youthful. There is nothing bad about eating something spicy occasionally, but regular flare-ups could lead to spider veins, puffiness, and/or permanent redness.
Before you begin to think that there isn’t anything you can eat anymore, we simply want to remind you that the only way forward is to live a life of moderation. You can of course enjoy these things, as long as you don’t make them a daily addition in your life. Moderation is key to a younger, smarter you!