Skin problems, especially acne, are common in young people and can be embarrassing. While there are many causes of acne, recent research suggests that high sugar consumption may be one culprit. High sugar consumption and skin problems almost go hand in hand for some people so let’s look further into this topic.

This study guide discusses the possible link between sugar and eczema, rashes, and what you can do to improve your skin health.

How Sugar Affects Your Body

Sugar is found in many foods and beverages, including soda, energy drinks, fruit juices, dairy products (like yogurt), cereals, ice cream, and baked goods.

Because of sugar prevalence in today’s society, consuming high amounts of sugar is becoming a major concern for public health officials.

As much as 75 percent of daily calorie intake in some Western countries comes from refined sugars. 

How does sugar affect our bodies?

Research shows that excessive sugar consumption-in excess of 50 grams per day or 25 teaspoons per week-increases risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure and low good cholesterol levels.

Excessive sugar consumption has also been linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

But what about sugar’s effect on skin health?

What do we know about its link with acne, dryness, wrinkles, and other signs of aging? Our study reviewed data from more than 15,000 women ages 40 to 65 who participated in a long-term study designed to examine links between diet and lifestyle habits and breast cancer incidence. 

The study found that women who consumed an average of 21% of their daily calories from added sugars had more than twice the risk of developing premenopausal breast cancer compared with those who consumed less than 10% percent daily calories from added sugars.

In addition, consuming foods containing high amounts of fructose may be especially harmful because they can trigger insulin resistance and inflammation in body tissues, which are believed to be precursors for many diseases including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

High Sugar Consumption and Skin Problems

Eating too much sugar can lead to a number of health problems, but when it comes to skin, high levels of sugar consumption have been linked to acne. Sugar is known to cause inflammation in our bodies and when we have higher levels of inflammation than normal, it is more likely that our body will break out.

In addition, sugar makes us hungry for sweets so we often reach for a snack with more sugar in it. These sweets actually increase our cravings for other unhealthy foods later on. 

This can result in a vicious cycle of snacking on junk food that wreaks havoc on your skin (and overall health).

Another possible reason that eating too much sugar causes skin problems is that bacteria known as P. acnes thrive on sugar. When there are high levels of these bacteria in your pores, you’re more likely to develop an infection or get a pimple. 

The good news is that lowering your intake of sugar can help prevent these issues from occurring! It may take some time for you to notice results, but if you stay committed to cutting back on sugary treats over time, you should start seeing improvements in how your skin looks and feels.

The relationship between Diabetes and Skin Problems

Diabetes can lead to various skin issues due to the impact of consistently elevated blood sugar levels on the body’s organs and systems. Here are some ways in which diabetes can affect the skin, along with references from reputable organizations:

1. Dry Skin and Itching: High blood sugar levels can cause dehydration, leading to dry skin. Diabetes can also affect nerve function, resulting in itching. According to the American Diabetes Association, dry, itchy skin is a common symptom of diabetes. Source: American Diabetes Association
2. Bacterial and Fungal Infections: Diabetes can weaken the body’s ability to fight infections, making individuals more susceptible to bacterial and fungal skin infections. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) explains how diabetes can increase the risk of skin infections. Source: NIDDK
3. Diabetic Dermopathy: Diabetic dermopathy is a skin condition characterized by light brown or red scaly patches on the skin, often on the shins. It is common among people with diabetes. Mayo Clinic provides information on diabetic dermopathy. Source: Mayo Clinic
4. Acanthosis Nigricans: This skin condition is marked by dark, thickened patches of skin, typically in body folds and creases. It is often associated with insulin resistance, a common precursor to type 2 diabetes. The Cleveland Clinic explains acanthosis nigricans and its link to diabetes. Source: Cleveland Clinic
5. Slow Wound Healing: Diabetes can hinder the body’s ability to heal wounds, increasing the risk of complications from cuts, sores, or infections. The American Academy of Dermatology discusses the relationship between diabetes and slow wound healing. Source: American Academy of Dermatology

These reputable sources provide valuable information on how diabetes can lead to various skin issues. It’s essential for individuals with diabetes to monitor their skin health and work closely with healthcare professionals to manage their condition effectively.

Manage your sugar intake

Although you can’t control your genetics, there are steps you can take to help improve your skin’s health. Limiting sugar intake is a good start.

Studies have shown that consuming too much sugar can trigger inflammation of your sebaceous glands, giving your skin an oily appearance and triggering pimples or other skin problems.

Consider cutting back on sugary foods, as well as natural sugars found in fruit juices, if you’re trying to improve your skin’s appearance. 

Sugar cravings often lead to overeating — a serious problem that contributes to obesity and increased risk for developing diabetes or heart disease.

Also, make sure you’re getting enough sleep — studies show inadequate sleep increases cortisol levels and makes it harder for people to control their appetite.

You might also be interested in reading our article about the benefits of apple cider vinegar on blood sugar levels.

Addressing skin problems from high sugar consumption

Other reasons for your skin issues could be hormonal imbalances, UV damage, side effects of medications or other products you’re using. The best way to figure out if any of these are causes is to get a full physical exam with your doctor. During that visit, he can determine whether there are any underlying medical conditions or medication side effects causing breakouts. 

If nothing serious is going on, he may prescribe over-the-counter treatments that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to fight acne while also eliminating common irritants like dyes, fragrances, and alcohol.

These ingredients can cause dryness in combination with high sugar consumption. Salicylic acid loosens oil trapped in pores by dissolving the excess dead skin cells on top. 

Benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria that contribute to acne formation. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling caused by pimples.

Other ways Sugar can impact your health

A new study has found that there are other ways in which sugar can affect our health. According to scientists at Brigham Young University, when a person consumes a high-sugar diet, it leads to an imbalance in gut bacteria.

As a result, these changes may contribute to several health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.

Further research is needed on sugar’s relationship with gut bacteria; however, if there is a link between sugar consumption and skin problems, then it would certainly be of interest to many people who have sensitive skin. 

Final Words

Two-thirds of adults consume too much sugar in their diet. This figure includes one in three children ages 12 to 19, and one in four teens ages 12 to 18. Sugar-sweetened drinks are a large source of added sugars consumed by Americans on average more than 100 calories per day.

Diet sodas, fruit drinks, iced teas, energy drinks, sweetened coffee, and tea can also contribute to excess added sugars if they are consumed frequently. 

If you’re looking for ways to cut back on your sugar intake, start with your beverages. A good rule of thumb is that any beverage containing more than 10 grams of sugar per serving should be limited or avoided altogether. Water is always your best bet when it comes to rehydrating and staying hydrated; even unsweetened herbal teas are better options than most sugary beverages.

Also, you might be interested in how Turmeric can help manage blood sugar.