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Third of four total posts on info from Clinique's site
Answer: Yes. The latest research indicated that excess sugars can for "AGE," a harmful waste that can age your skin.
Does that mean sugars are bad for me?
No, your body needs moderate amounts of sugar to metabolize for energy. But cells can only handle so much. Excess sugar builds up outside cells where it reacts with the protein fiber network that gives skin its resilience. The harmful waste products from that reaction, which scientists dubbed "Advanced Glycosylation End-products," live up to their acronym—AGE.
Isn't AGE part of the normal aging process?
Not necessarily. Normally, scientists do expect to see a certain amount of AGE formation starting after age 40. In recent years, AGEs have been observed in the body at far earlier ages, most likely fueled by today's AGEing diet. The presence of AGE also makes skin more vulnerable to damage from sun exposure, considered by dermatologists to be the leading cause of premature skin aging.
What's considered "excess" sugar?
It's hard to say, since the amount of sugars that cells can absorb varies by individual. Researchers are studying AGE formation to determine how it is linked to excess sugar consumption. Until there's a clear link, a common sense approach would be to reduce added sugars. The average American eats 20 teaspoons of added sugars a day, an amount most nutritionists consider excessive for overall health. A more sensible maximum would be 6-10 teaspoons for people eating 1,600-2,000 calories a day.
How do I know how much sugar I'm eating?
Check the Nutrition Facts label for "Sugars" or "Total Sugars" and do the math— 4 grams equals one teaspoon. Pay attention to serving sizes: if a bag of candy or a cupcake is considered 2 or 3 servings, multiply Sugars accordingly. Sugars can be a concern even if you don't have a "sweet tooth." Many foods and drinks not usually considered "sweets" are high in sugar. Carbohydrates aren't sweet, yet they turn into sugars in the body. And even if you avoid "sweets," you could be eating AGE in processed foods.
What foods contain "pre-made" AGE?
The main source is commercially produced foods that bake sugar with protein, such as eggs, a similar reaction to the one that produces AGE in the body. Eating "pre-made" AGE brings more of these harmful end-products to skin cells, where they adhere to cell membranes. This triggers inflammation, another contributing factor in premature skin aging.
Anything else I should know?
Cosmetic science is investigating treatments to reduce the harmful effects of AGE on the skin. Meanwhile, de-AGE your diet. Coupled with daily protection from UV rays and other environmental stressors, it will keep your skin looking better, longer.
Answer: Yes. The latest research indicated that excess sugars can for "AGE," a harmful waste that can age your skin.
Does that mean sugars are bad for me?
No, your body needs moderate amounts of sugar to metabolize for energy. But cells can only handle so much. Excess sugar builds up outside cells where it reacts with the protein fiber network that gives skin its resilience. The harmful waste products from that reaction, which scientists dubbed "Advanced Glycosylation End-products," live up to their acronym—AGE.
Isn't AGE part of the normal aging process?
Not necessarily. Normally, scientists do expect to see a certain amount of AGE formation starting after age 40. In recent years, AGEs have been observed in the body at far earlier ages, most likely fueled by today's AGEing diet. The presence of AGE also makes skin more vulnerable to damage from sun exposure, considered by dermatologists to be the leading cause of premature skin aging.
What's considered "excess" sugar?
It's hard to say, since the amount of sugars that cells can absorb varies by individual. Researchers are studying AGE formation to determine how it is linked to excess sugar consumption. Until there's a clear link, a common sense approach would be to reduce added sugars. The average American eats 20 teaspoons of added sugars a day, an amount most nutritionists consider excessive for overall health. A more sensible maximum would be 6-10 teaspoons for people eating 1,600-2,000 calories a day.
How do I know how much sugar I'm eating?
Check the Nutrition Facts label for "Sugars" or "Total Sugars" and do the math— 4 grams equals one teaspoon. Pay attention to serving sizes: if a bag of candy or a cupcake is considered 2 or 3 servings, multiply Sugars accordingly. Sugars can be a concern even if you don't have a "sweet tooth." Many foods and drinks not usually considered "sweets" are high in sugar. Carbohydrates aren't sweet, yet they turn into sugars in the body. And even if you avoid "sweets," you could be eating AGE in processed foods.
What foods contain "pre-made" AGE?
The main source is commercially produced foods that bake sugar with protein, such as eggs, a similar reaction to the one that produces AGE in the body. Eating "pre-made" AGE brings more of these harmful end-products to skin cells, where they adhere to cell membranes. This triggers inflammation, another contributing factor in premature skin aging.
Anything else I should know?
Cosmetic science is investigating treatments to reduce the harmful effects of AGE on the skin. Meanwhile, de-AGE your diet. Coupled with daily protection from UV rays and other environmental stressors, it will keep your skin looking better, longer.
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