Sugar is bad for our waistline and is finally being noticed for its impact on other health conditions like diabetes and heart health. In the past, dermatologists did not believe that diet can trigger acne and other skin conditions, but now there is mounting evidence. The foods you eat play a big role in the health of your skin and sugar is one of the worst culprits.

1. Insulin

When we eat sugar and other refined carbohydrates, the body processes it into glucose. The presence of glucose in the blood then triggers a release of insulin. The more sugar and refined carbs you eat, the higher the insulin levels. High insulin levels cause inflammation throughout the body. Specifically, it leads to a breakdown of collagen and elastin resulting in sagging skin and wrinkles.

2. Glycation

Sugar molecules bond to protein and fat molecules in our body causing them to become stiff and less functional. Collagen and elastin are the fibers keeping skin firm and elastic and are among the most vulnerable proteins in this process.

3. Testosterone

When women eat more sugar, it starts a cascade beginning with the increase insulin, which then signals the ovaries to increase production of testosterone. Testosterone then over-stimulates oil glands on the skin and make hair follicles more ‘sticky’, thus more likely to clog pores.

4. Immune system

Sugar weakens the immune system and can directly impact skin health. This may mean you are more susceptible to bacterial infections, including acne or recovery from wounds may slow down.

My tips for healthy, glowing skin:

Dietary changes:

  • decrease the amount of sugar, refined carbohydrates and dairy to minimize spikes in insulin and inflammation

  • low sugar, refined carbohydrates and dairy; high in fruits and vegetables for antioxidants to fight inflammation

  • drink water (with electrolytes) to help move nutrients where they need to go and to remove toxins and waste

Healthy fats

  • increase foods rich in omega-3 fats, like oily fish, nuts, seeds, olive oil and avocado for good cell structure and to fight inflammation

Lifestyle changes

  • get more sleep to give the body time to repair and clean out toxins and waste

  • manage stress to minimize insulin spikes

Artificial Sweeteners

Are you thinking of replacing sugar with artificial sweeteners like saccharin, aspartame or sucralose? Don’t. Artificial sweeteners can have the same negative impact on our skin. Just like sugar, they increase the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes resulting in the breakdown of collagen and elastin.

Did You Know?

Skin tags, little flaps of skin that crop up in the armpit, neck, or groin area are “external signs and symptoms of insulin resistance.” – Dr. Loren Cordain

The RESTART Program

Not only is sugar consumption associated with skin problems, it is now associated with many diseases like obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease and dementia.

Are you ready to kick the sugar habit? Ready to sleep better, think clearer and have more energy?

The RESTART Program is a 5 week nutrition class that includes a 3-week vacation from sugar as part of a real food challenge. You’ll learn how to eat to reduce inflammation, how blood sugar impacts health, and the importance of healthy fats. You will sleep like a baby, lose the bloating and gas, be in a better mood and have the energy to do things after a long day at the office!

The next class begins Monday October 28th at 5:30PM PST.

Invite a friend or family member to do it with you and you both get a discount! Graduates also get a special discount.

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