Sugar Consumption: We all love a good sweet treat, especially during festivals like Diwali. But did you know that indulging in too many sweets can do more than just weight gain that adds inches to your waistline? According to Dr Shubham Vatsya, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Fortis Vasant Kunj (New Delhi) excessive sugar intake can accelerate the ageing process, particularly affecting the skin’s elasticity and youthfulness
The Hidden Dangers Of Excessive Sugar Consumption From Sweets
In a recent video, Dr Vatsya explains how consuming too many sweets can impact health and skin. He emphasises that while many people assume sweets only cause weight gain, every extra bite of mithai gradually reduces youthfulness.
The process behind this is known as glycation. When we consume excess sugar, it enters the bloodstream and binds to important structural skin proteins like collagen and elastin. This binding forms harmful compounds called Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs), which make skin lose its elasticity and youthful appearance
But the effects of AGEs aren’t just skin-deep. They can also weaken blood vessels, speed up organ ageing and increase the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart issues and brain problems
Eat Sweets In Moderation
To maintain long-term health and preserve skin vitality, Dr Vatsya encourages mindful consumption of sweets during the festive period. Occasional indulgence is fine, but frequent consumption accelerates ageing and long-term health decline
Sugar Consumption: Understanding Glycation And Its Effects
Glycation is a natural process in your body that’s triggered by sugars like glucose or fructose. When there’s too much sugar inside the skin fibers, the sugar molecules adhere to the skin’s collagen and elastin proteins. These proteins are responsible for keeping skin firm and supple. When these important proteins get weighed down by sugar, your body responds with other processes that can result in inflammation and signs of skin aging
The accumulation of AGEs can lead to stiffening of collagen fibers, making the skin less elastic and more prone to wrinkles and sagging
While sweets are a delightful part of our celebrations, it’s essential to be aware of their potential impact on our health and appearance. By moderating our sugar intake and making mindful choices, we can enjoy the festivities without compromising our skin’s youthfulness and overall well-being.
