Dermatologist says five foods eaten at night age your skin

A young woman eating pizza at home
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A dermatologist has warned that a list of foods could be making you look older, speeding up your skin's ageing process. Dr Kate Jameson, a dermatologist from Youth Lab AUS, has warned that the seemingly harmless habit of late-night snacking on high glycemic foods might be ageing you.

Popular snacks that many reach for before bed could be the culprits behind increasing wrinkles and sagging skin. Dr Jameosn said: "Eating high glycemic foods like pizzas, crisps, or biscuits right before bed can cause a spike in insulin levels and result in inflammation, significantly impacting your skin’s health and appearance. Opting for healthier snacks can make a noticeable difference in maintaining your skin’s youthfulness and elasticity."

Common High Glycemic Snacks to Avoid Before Bed:

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  • Pizzas

  • Crisps

  • Biscuits

  • White Chocolate

  • Energy Drinks

Dr Jameson recommends these healthier alternatives to curb late-night cravings without compromising skin health:

Healthier Bedtime Snacks for Healthier Skin:

  • A bowl of mixed berries

  • Carrot sticks with hummus

  • A small serving of cottage cheese

  • A handful of almonds

  • An apple with peanut butter

"These nutritious snacks help stabilise your insulin levels and supply essential nutrients that support skin repair and regeneration throughout the night," D. Jameson adds.

Recent studies linking diet-induced inflammation to collagen breakdown and increased oxidative stress underscore the importance of choosing the right foods for evening snacks to combat skin ageing, said Dr Jameson.

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High glycemic foods are those that cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels due to their high glycemic index (GI). The glycemic index ranks foods on a scale from 0 to 100 based on how quickly they raise blood glucose levels. High GI foods typically have a score of 70 or above.

Examples of High Glycemic Foods:

Refined Carbohydrates & Sugary Foods:

  • White bread

  • White rice

  • Pasta (especially refined)

  • Breakfast cereals (cornflakes, Rice Krispies)

  • Cakes, pastries, and cookies

  • Sugary drinks and fruit juices

Starchy Vegetables:

  • Potatoes (especially mashed or baked)

  • Corn

  • Parsnips

Fruits with High Natural Sugars:

  • Watermelon

  • Pineapple

Processed Snacks & Fast Food:

  • Chips and crackers

  • Pretzels

  • Instant noodles

Eating too many high GI foods can lead to quick energy crashes, increased hunger, and potential long-term health risks like insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and weight gain.