5 food items that age you faster

We often do not realise the impact our diet has on our skin, and what it means for ageing. Dr Somnath Gupta, Consultant Physician & Diabetologist, Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad, said the ageing of your skin can be influenced by two main factors — genetic and environmental factors. “Environmental factors include diet, sleep, stress, and activity. While there’s no single food that directly causes skin ageing, certain dietary choices can contribute to premature ageing due to their impact on your overall health and skin,” he explained. (Source: Freepik)

While moderate caffeine consumption is generally safe, excessive intake can lead to dehydration, which can result in dull, dry, and aged-looking skin, according to Dr Gupta. (Source: Freepik)

Excessive alcohol consumption can dehydrate your skin, leading to dryness and fine lines. “It can also dilate blood vessels, causing redness and a flushed appearance, which can become permanent over time,” said Dr Gupta. (Source: Freepik)

Consuming excessive sugar can lead to a process called glycation, where sugar molecules bind to collagen and elastin fibres in your skin, making them stiff and less flexible. This can result in wrinkles and sagging skin, explained Dr Gupta. (Source: Freepik)

Foods high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed carbs can cause body inflammation. This inflammation can speed up skin ageing, resulting in wrinkles and less elastic skin. (Source: Freepik)

Certain foods, like celery and citrus fruits, contain compounds called psoralens that can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This can increase the risk of sunburn and skin damage. (Source: Freepik)