How Sugar is Causing You to Age Prematurely
Prematurely aging skin is one of the most common skincare gripes around amongst both men and women, across the US. And we all know about the usual culprits of aging like sun exposure, lack of sleep, and poor skincare habits. But while experts have gone back and forth arguing over our diet’s direct effect on the skin, recent research done by diabetes researchers has found a link between excess glucose or sugar levels in the bloodstream and a plethora of skincare issues – including, wrinkles, brown spots, yellowing skin and loose, hanging skin – all visible signs of premature skin aging. According to Midtown physician, Dr. Lebow the top specialist in general dermatology 10022 has to offer, the damage from sugar occurs due to a process known as glycation. To better educate you on all the issues surrounding sugar and its affect on the skin, here are some important facts to know.
Since the days of the old food pyramid, healthcare professionals have been aware of the adverse effects of sugar on our overall health and wellness. And when it comes to general dermatology 10022 patients are often given misinformation on how sugar can affect our skin. For years we have been told that sugar, and overall diet has little effect on the presence of issues like acne, however, according to new research on diabetes patients they have found an interesting link. Sugar causes a process known as glycation, which in-turn leads to premature signs of aging. Glycation is a process in which sugar binds to certain proteins and lipids in the body, first preventing these cells from functioning properly, and then creating a series of free radicals which will cause further damage to the cells and your overall health. We’ve all heard the term free radicals and their toxic effect on the skin’s health and aesthetic appearance. Two of the main molecular compounds effected by this process of glycation are collagen and elastin – compounds vital to the soft, supple feel, tight, taught texture and youthful appearance of our skin. As we naturally age, collagen and elastin stop being produced, and our skin will naturally lose its “luster”. With glycation, this process becomes expedited and whatever collagen and elastin are present in the skin, will no longer function at their peak performance. This not only damages the skin itself, but the lack of these vital compounds now makes the skin more susceptible to other environmental damage like UV rays, air pollution, wind or rain, and smoking – elements that are known to cause our skin to age as well.
In addition to glycation and the breakdown of collagen & elastin, sugar also has other adverse effects on the skin. As the premiere specialist in general dermatology 10022 patients have come to trust, Dr. Lebow believes sugar to be a root cause of rare skincare conditions like:
· Scleredemaadultorum– A hardening of the outer later of skin. Often starting around the neck and shoulders and radiating outwards.
· Acanthosis nigrican– The darkening of the skin in closed off areas such as the armpits, folds in the elbows, neck and even the hands. Also causes the skin to take on a velvety texture.
· Necrobiosis lipoidicadiabeticorum– The development of a brown-yellow, plaque-like wax along the skin in certain areas.
1. The fact is that sugar is the enemy when it comes to skincare and overall health. And the good news is that most of these effects of sugar intake are reversible and respond well to certain types of treatment. Clearly the first step is to limit your sugar intake, in order to prevent further glycation. It is important to understand that refined sugars are the worst for you and high-glycemic, sugar-rich snacks should be the first to go. Natural sugars like in fruits are okay, in limited quantities. While these fruits do have sugar in them, blueberries and grapes and other fruits do have some detoxifying qualities and can help to rid the body of those harmful free radicals. Cut out sugary drinks, cookies, cakes, white breads, pasta, and replace them with multigrain options, sweet potatoes, veggies and lean proteins. Also try using collagen boosting serums and procedures, to help limit the damage that has already been done. For more information on all your skincare needs, contact Dr. Anat Lebow today.
