15 foods that ruin your skin

Donuts

Whether they're made in a fancy bakery or a gas station diner, donuts are a double dose of bad news for your skin. Fat and sugar come with problem skin.

Soda

Sugary sodas and other high-sugar drinks can disrupt the formation of collagen—the connective tissue that keeps skin firm—so it's time to switch to low-calorie drinks like sparkling and still water and unsweetened tea.

Roast

Fried foods can lead to bad skin, but forget the myth that touching your face with dirty hands will cause pimples (though it's unlikely to make your skin healthy). Eating large amounts of fatty foods can negatively impact circulation. This can lead to puffy skin, which won't look good in the mirror.

Alcohol

The diuretic effect of alcohol can have a detrimental effect on your skin, dehydrating it and giving it a dull, lifeless appearance. This doesn't mean you should avoid drinking altogether, but it should be consumed in moderation. And don't forget that you can partially counteract the effects of alcohol by drinking more fluids.

Polished rice

Like white bread, polished rice has a very high glycemic index. While it's not entirely unhealthy, it can be paired with relatively high-protein foods, such as chicken, beans, or peanut butter on rice cakes, to prolong digestion.

Candies

It's no secret that eating candy is bad for your waistline, but all that processed sugar can also be bad for your skin, increasing the risk of breakouts.

Salty snacks

Chips and salty dips can quickly increase your salt intake, leading to water retention. This can be felt throughout your body, including your skin.

Coffee

Coffee opens the door to several potential skin problems. Caffeine dehydrates the skin, worsening fine lines and wrinkles. If your coffee is loaded with cream and sugar, it's even worse. Finally, if large doses of caffeine keep you awake, this will also affect your skin. Coffee contains beneficial antioxidants, but those who drink it in moderation are always at risk.

Popcorn from the cinema

A large bucket of movie theater popcorn contains over 1,000 calories… and that's before it's rolled in butter substitute. Such a significant dose of calories and salt will linger on your skin longer than the movie. When you go to the movies, skip the local snacks.

Meat products

Regularly consuming fatty and salty meats, such as salami or sausages, can negatively impact your skin. Choose brands with fewer preservatives, eat meat in moderation, and drink more water.

White bread

Some studies suggest that foods with a high glycemic index (GI) can worsen skin conditions. Consuming high-GI foods, such as white bread, can cause a significant spike in blood sugar and insulin levels, which can trigger acne.

Gas stations

Sauces are considered a hidden source of excess sugar and salt. For example, soy sauce, ketchup, and barbecue sauce will only add stress to your skin. Watch your portion sizes.

Sweet teas

Tea is packed with beneficial nutrients, but sweetened teas can contain up to 10 teaspoons of sugar per serving. Collagen is the substance that keeps skin firm and radiant. Eating a lot of sweet and anti-inflammatory foods can disrupt collagen production, causing your skin to look saggy and dull. Instead, choose foods that promote collagen production, such as berries and vibrant vegetables.

Mayonnaise

Foods (such as mayonnaise and some salad dressings) high in vegetable oils containing omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (such as soybean, corn, and safflower oils) can stimulate skin inflammation. Most of these vegetable oils are beneficial when consumed in moderation. It's best to combine omega-6s with anti-inflammatory omega-3s from foods like tuna and salmon.

Energy drinks

Another double whammy, this time from caffeine and sugar. These drinks promise energy, but in reality, they just pump you full of sugar, caffeine, and other stimulants. Don't be fooled by the hype.