Overdo it on refined sugar and the first place you're likely to see the effects is on your complexion.
Long before those chocolate biscuits reach our hips, they'll be wreaking havoc on our chins and cheeks in the form of spots.
Here's the science bit: refined sugar (from naughty carbs like biscuits, baked goods, bread and sweets) causes a spike in insulin levels, which leads to inflammation throughout the body. The enzymes produced by this inflammation break down the collagen in the skin, making it saggy and more prone to wrinkles. It can also exacerbate acne and rosacea.
Yikes.
The answer? Try and keep the treat consumption reasonable, drink plenty of water and whizz up one of these bad boys for brekkie every morning.
Here's why it works: Carrots encourage cell renewal and make skin glow, while cucumber and pineapple are excellent anti-inflammatories. An under-appreciated herb in many ways, parsley contains beta carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A to heal and repair the skin from inside. Consuming it can even help the body regulate sebum production, balancing an oily complexion. Together, they make a juicy spot-fighting dream team.
Ingredients
- Half a pineapple
- One large carrot
- Half a cucumber
- A handful of parsley
- One Golden Delicious apple
Method:
Juice all the ingredients and serve over ice.
