Food is something the human body cannot live without. There are various categories of foods ranging from carbohydrates to fats and minerals. Knowing how to balance these foods is key, and not everything called food should be consumed especially as one gets older. There are specific food categories that have a negative effect on the health and may shorten ones’ lifespan tremendously. Here are a few foods to cut back or cut off from.
1. SUGAR
Sugar consumption usually leads to a process called glycation. Glycation is a process whereby the sugar combines with other compounds such as proteins leading to the secretion of substances known as advanced Glycation end products (AGES). These AGES may damage your skin’s collagen which is a protein that keeps the skin looking youthful. Not only is it harmful to the skin, it also leads to tooth decay.
2. CHARRED MEAT
Charred meat may be delicious to the tongue, but it does more harm than good. Most times, the black char contains pro-inflammatory hydrocarbons, which could present a problem since inflammation breaks down the collagen in your skin. If you must consume grilled meat, ensure you strip the meat of char and clean the grill properly after use to avoid consuming contaminated leftovers.
3. PROCESSED MEATS
Processed meats include sausages, bacon, corned beef etc. Many of these meats contain preservatives and sulfites which can trigger inflammation in the skin and accelerate the aging process. Red meat in general is very dangerous for the heart. It leads to heart disease and digestive problems. Swap red meat for fish which is high in amino acids and minerals.
4. TRANS. FATS
Still on the issue of heart disease, trans fats have been highly attributed to the disease. They’re not just bad for the heart, but for the skin as well. Trans fats promote inflammation plus, the unhealthy fats make the skin vulnerable to damage from the sun, which is the number-one cause of aging. Many food labels contain the tag “0g trans fat,” these products still contain under 0.5g of the artificial fat. Ensure you avoid products that contain hydrogenated oil on the ingredient label too.
5. SALT
Salt is another dehydrating agent. Salt has been highly attributed to high blood pressure and kidney disease. Salt also interferes with the bone’s metabolism.
6. CARBOHYDRATES
Consumption of carbohydrates in large quantity tends to reduce collagen production and reduce fiber in your skin.
7. FRIED FOOD
Fried food is exposed to a large number of chemical reactions which put the skin at high risk of inflammation and collagen breakdown in the skin. Regular consumption may cause the skin to wrinkle and get worn out.
By Pamela Echemunor
