We all want glowing, youthful skin, but did you know that some everyday foods could be secretly accelerating the aging process? Neuroscientist Robert Love, who specializes in preventing Alzheimer’s with science-based nutrition, breaks down the top three foods to avoid if you want to keep your body and skin looking younger.
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1. High Fructose Corn Syrup (and Agave Syrup)
Processed foods packed with high fructose corn syrup are a major culprit. “High fructose corn syrup is a ton of calories and usually not very much fiber,” Love explains. These sweeteners spike insulin and blood sugar levels, which triggers inflammation—a primary driver of aging. Even worse, these sugars are easily stored as fat, contributing to weight gain that can further impact overall health and skin appearance.
2. French Fries
French fries might be irresistible, but they’re aging double-time. First, the potatoes spike blood sugar, which increases inflammation. Second, frying creates advanced glycation end products (AGEs)—compounds that literally accelerate cellular aging and damage collagen. “French fries increase inflammation in two distinct ways,” Love warns, making them a particularly harmful treat for youthful skin and overall health.
3. Seed Oils (Sunflower, Safflower, Canola, Corn Oil)
Many commonly used cooking oils are highly processed under high heat and pressure. “When these oils are in containers, they oxidize very readily. And when you consume them, they are very inflammatory,” Love notes. Chronic inflammation from these oils can accelerate aging from the inside out, affecting everything from your skin to your organs.
Better Alternatives
Instead of these aging culprits, opt for nutrient-rich foods that support both skin and brain health:
- Organic fruits and vegetables
- Healthy proteins like wild-caught salmon or sardines
- Hydrating beverages like water, green tea, or organic coffee
By swapping out these three inflammatory foods for healthier alternatives, you can help slow aging, reduce inflammation, and keep your skin and body looking vibrant.
