Sugar Not Sweet For Skin: 5 Side-Effects Of Sugar You Should Know

You probably know by now that consuming excessive amounts of sugar is not great for your health. However, some people still tend to overindulge. We have news that might make you reconsider reaching for that large slice of cake and encourage you to walk away. Sugar is detrimental to our skin as it accelerates the ageing process! Yes, you heard us right. Your diet, among many other factors, plays a significant role in damaging your skin's health, and sugar is one of the worst culprits. We understand that sugar is present in various foods, but it's crucial to recognize the significant difference between natural and added sugar. While natural sugar is a healthy component for nourishment, added sugars have a negative impact on your health.
In this article, we will explore some warning signs that your skin displays when you consume excess sugar (specifically, added sugar). But before we delve into that, let's first understand the fundamental distinction between natural and added sugar.
Also Read: 5 Types of Sugar That Are Better Alternatives to Refined Sugar

Natural Sugar Vs Added Sugar: What Is The Difference Between The Two:

What Is Natural Sugar?

According to The Sugar Association, sugar stands for the word sucrose, a healthy component naturally produced in fruits and vegetables. Sucrose is a simple, water-soluble carbohydrate that provides you energy for physical and mental functioning.

What Is Added Sugar?

Of all the fruits and vegetables, sugarcane is known to contain the highest quantities of sugar and is considered the optimal choice for sugar extraction, as stated by the Sugar Association. The white sugar that you add to your tea, coffee, and desserts is a byproduct of extensive processing, which leads to the loss of nutrients and has negative effects on health. Added sugar is also present in processed foods, packaged drinks, and nearly every food item found on the shelves of grocery stores. While completely eliminating sugar from your meals may seem challenging, you can always limit your intake for the sake of better health.
Also Read: Is Sugar Really Bad For Your Health? Here're 5 Facts You Need To Keep In Mind

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Side Effects of Excess Sugar Intake: How Added Sugar Negatively Affects Your Health:

1. Weight gain:

Sugar and sugary items are high in calories and low in nutrients. Consuming these foods in excessive amounts leads to an increased calorie intake, raising the risk of weight gain and obesity.

2. High blood pressure:

Consuming excessive sugar may inhibit the production of nitric oxide in blood vessels and activate the sympathetic nervous system. These factors can result in elevated blood pressure and heart rate.

3. Increased blood sugar:

While sugar consumption doesn't directly impact blood sugar levels, factors like weight gain and increased heart risks due to high sugar intake may lead to insulin resistance and increase the risk of diabetes.

4. Tooth decay:

Sugar is known to nourish oral bacteria, which produce acid as a waste product. This acid can erode tooth enamel, leading to various dental issues, including cavities.

5. Affects mood:

For many of us, indulging in sugary treats provides temporary relief. Ever wondered why? The sugar in these treats triggers an instant increase in serotonin secretion, leading to a sudden change in mood. However, in the long run, excessive sugar intake can negatively affect mental health, causing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Also Read: Is Quitting Sugar Completely A Healthy Option?

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Why Is Added Sugar Bad for Your Skin: 5 Warning Signs You Must Consider

1. Acne:

Excessive sugar intake causes inflammation in the body, leading to increased sebum production (oil for the skin). These factors contribute to the development of acne and pimples.

2. Premature aging:

The chemicals in sugar are known to impair collagen production in the skin. They also hinder the skin's detoxification process, resulting in the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and premature aging.

3. Dehydration:

High sugar consumption affects blood and oxygen circulation in the skin cells, which can cause dryness and dehydration of the skin.

4. Puffiness:

As mentioned earlier, sugar triggers inflammation in the body, leading to swelling, pain, and general puffiness, particularly under the eyes.

5. Dullness:

Excess sugar consumption limits collagen production and breaks down elastin, proteins that provide firmness and sheen to the skin. Reduced production of these proteins can make the skin appear dry and under-nourished.
Also Read: Skincare Tips: 7 Healthy Diet Tips For Glowing Skin

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How to Maintain Healthy Skin:

Having healthy skin can instantly boost your happiness and confidence. Therefore, it is important to take proper care of your skin. A healthy diet plays a crucial role in this regard. By consuming plenty of water, nutritious foods, getting enough rest, and limiting sugar intake, you can achieve your desired skin goals easily. We provide you with some everyday food options that you can include in your diet to achieve naturally glowing skin. Click here to learn more.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.