Buzz
A Conversation with Nicholas Perricone, M.D.
Can rice cakes really sabotage your diet? Surprisingly, yes, says dermatologist Nicholas Perricone, M.D., a renowned authority on facial rejuvenation and author of The Wrinkle Cure and The Perricone Prescription. His prescription for glowing skin and maintaining a healthy weight involves avoiding sugar and high-glycemic carbs, which the body quickly turns into sugar. Discovery Health Online spoke with Dr. Perricone to uncover the damaging impact of sugar on the skin, the benefits of cutting it out, and the surprising truth about foods once thought to be healthy.
Q: Can excessive sugar consumption visibly affect your skin?
A: Without a doubt. I believe inflammation is the root cause of aging in all organs, including the skin. A sudden spike in blood sugar triggers cellular changes that speed up aging. This can lead to deterioration in the brain, heart, or skin. Diet is a major contributor to inflammation. Sugar also harms the skin through glycation, where it binds to collagen, making the skin rigid and less elastic. This loss of elasticity leads to deep wrinkles and an aged appearance.
Q: Are traditional sweets, such as candy bars and chocolate cake, the main culprits behind the loss of skin's youthful elasticity?
A: Yes, but it’s also foods people don’t realize are quickly turned into sugar—like pasta, bread, potatoes, and rice. Even when individuals believe they’re making healthy choices, they might still consume high levels of sugar that accelerate cellular aging. For instance, a patient might proudly mention eating a plain baked potato for lunch, unaware that it converts into as much sugar as several candy bars.
Q: How can those addicted to sugar protect their skin?
A: Consuming sugary treats and carbs causes a sharp spike in blood sugar, but the subsequent crash can lead to intense cravings. To combat this, sugar addicts should focus on stabilizing blood sugar and insulin levels by avoiding harmful carbs and increasing protein intake for a few days. This not only firms the skin but also stabilizes blood sugar and eliminates cravings. Once free from addiction, they can occasionally enjoy chocolate out of choice rather than compulsion.
