Dietary factors play a major role in the body’s natural aging process. Over time, a lack of proper nutrition may speed up skin aging.
The good news is that you can optimize your diet to protect your skin’s youthful glow. Read on to learn more!
Which Foods Accelerate Aging?
The following foods are known to contribute to skin aging and are best consumed in moderation (if at all) for healthy skin.
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- Fried foods, like french fries and donuts, promote free radical damage in the body.
- Processed meat, like sausage and bacon, contains high amounts of sodium, saturated fats, and sulfites, all of which can contribute to inflammation and dehydrate the skin.
- Refined carbohydrates, like white bread, trigger the formation of AGEs (advanced glycation end products), which contribute to systemic inflammation.
- Spicy foods can make the skin look red and blotchy in the short term. In the long term, eating high amounts of spicy food can increase inflammation throughout the body and accelerate the skin aging process.
- Added sugars, like those found in candy bars, sodas, and baked goods, increase inflammation while damaging collagen and elastin in the skin. Collagen and elastin are proteins that keep youthful skin plump and strong.
- Trans fats, which may be found in shortening, frozen foods, and fried foods, can accelerate skin aging by constricting arteries and blood vessels, leading to reduced circulation.
- Alcohol (when it’s consumed consistently) can compromise your liver’s ability to filter toxins from the body.
- Caffeine is dehydrating and can reduce collagen production in the skin, leading to prematurely thinning, sagging, and wrinkled skin.
- Charred and barbequed meats often contain pro-inflammatory hydrocarbons. These compounds increase inflammation in the body and may accelerate skin aging.
Along with a nutritious, balanced diet, minimally invasive aesthetic treatments in Tampa Bay can help you retain a youthful appearance. Schedule a consultation at Florida Face and Body to learn more!