Sugar Free Diet for Sweeter Skin

In the era where people is living longer but youth is still worshipped the study of anti-aging is a boom in the medical science world. Youthful skin is one of the ultimate dream. Nevertheless, since skin is the largest organ of our bodies, we might as well take good care of it. We all know that sugar is linked to diabetes, obesity, and many other illnesses. But scientists have found that sugar is also linked to the cause of wrinkles! (O_O')

Glucose is an important source of energy to living organisms. However, a rapid rise in the sugar level in the blood causes inflammations to all organs such as the brain, the heart, and even the skin. Sugar is destructive to the skin. Glycation is natural process to blame. Once sugar enters your bloodstream it will attach itself to proteins to form new molecules called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These molecules will damage the elastin and collagen in your skin. Resulting in making the skin to lose its firmness and become stiff and inflexible.

Not only are the collagen molecules in your skin gets damaged but the advance glycation end product proteins also change what type of collagen you have. The most abundant collagen in the skin are types I, II, and III, with type III being the most stable and longest lasting. Glycation transforms type III collagen into type I, which is more fragile. When that happens, the skin looks and feels less supple.

These AGEs also hurt your natural antioxidants. As a result the skin is prone to damage from UV rays, free radicals, and stress, which are the main cause of wrinkles.

"What about young children who like to eat sweets?" you may ask. The answer is this, when glycation happens in children their youthful bodies have the mechanism to fix and replace the damage right away. This is different in adults though. As we age the natural fixing process slows down. By the age of 35 the fixing process eventually stops. Leaving behind the marks of aging.

Don't lose hope and think you'll never be able to have sugar again. As mentioned earlier, glucose is the main source of energy. You need it no matter what. However I suggest reducing the amount of sugar intake per day. Avoid adding sugar in your dishes. Many food contains sugar already. Carbs will be broken down to sugar. Fruits and vegetables already have their own sugar. Try to maintain a well balanced diet. In addition, if you want to look young, you will have to drink plenty of water and sleep early. Good luck!