Ultra Processed Foods and Your Skin: What You Need to Know
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Avoiding Ultra-Processed Overload
There is a profound connection between what we consume and the health of our skin. Even diligently applied creams and serums cannot counter a poor diet, especially as we age. Research is now turning to look at the impact of ultra-processed foods on our overall health. This type of food dominates supermarket shelves, enticing us with its convenience and palatability.
What are ultra-processed foods?
Ultra-processed foods, as the name suggests, undergo extensive processing, often involving additives, preservatives, and artificial flavours. Research has shown the detrimental effects of consuming excessive ultra-processed foods on various aspects of health, from cardiovascular issues to obesity. It can also impact our skin’s vitality and radiance.
Why are ultra-processed foods bad for you?
One of the primary concerns regarding ultra-processed foods is their high glycaemic index (GI), which can wreak havoc on skin health. Foods with a high GI cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, triggering a cascade of inflammatory processes in the body. This chronic inflammation can manifest on the skin in the form of acne and eczema, and accelerate the signs of ageing. The excessive sugar and unhealthy fats found in ultra-processed foods can disrupt our gut microbiome and the delicate balance of hormones, such as insulin and cortisol, exacerbate skin conditions.
How ultra-processed foods impact your skin
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology highlights the link between high-glycaemic diets and acne severity. A diet laden with ultra-processed foods can cause skin to look dull, dehydrated, and lack elasticity. Ultra-processed foods lack the essential nutrients and antioxidants needed to support skin health, leaving our complexion vulnerable to environmental stressors and premature signs of ageing.
So, what can we do to protect our skin from the onslaught of ultra-processed foods? Adopt a balanced and wholesome diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods. Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats nourish our bodies and promote radiant, glowing skin. Making simple swaps will reduce our dietary dependence on ultra-processed food.
How to avoid ultra-processed foods
Here are some of my favourite swaps:
UPF: Sugary Breakfast Cereal
Alternative: Rolled Oats with Fresh Fruit and Nuts
Swap out the highly processed cereal for nutrient-rich oats topped with fresh berries, and bananas. Sprinkle nuts for added protein and healthy fats.
UPF: Flavoured Yoghurt with Added Sugar
Alternative: Plain Greek Yogurt with Honey and Berries
Skip the artificially flavoured yoghurt packed with sugar and artificial additives. Choose plain Greek yoghurt sweetened naturally with a drizzle of honey and topped with fresh berries for a delicious and wholesome snack.
UPF: Packaged Potato Chips
Alternative: Homemade Baked Sweet Potato Chips
Instead of indulging in shop-bought potato chips, make your own baked sweet potato chips at home. Thinly sliced sweet potatoes, tossed in a little olive oil and sea salt, and baked until crispy are a healthier alternative to satisfy your snack cravings.
UFP: Soft Drinks, Energy Drinks and Sweetened Beverages
Alternative: Infused Water or Herbal Tea
Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing dryness. Ditch the sugary sodas and opt for refreshing infused water with slices of citrus fruits, cucumber, or mint leaves. Alternatively, enjoy a soothing cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or green tea, for hydration without the added sugars and chemicals.
Making simple swaps and choosing whole, minimally processed foods, will nourish your body with the essential nutrients it needs for skin health and overall well-being.
