Myths vs facts: Glukose and skin aging

**Myths vs. Facts: Glucose and Skin Aging** **Myth:** Sugar directly causes wrinkles and must be completely avoided. **Fact:** Chronically elevated blood glucose can damage collagen and elastin via non-enzymatic glycation (AGEs), accelerating skin aging. However, the effect is moderate and multifactorial – UV exposure, smoking, and genetics are more influential. **Myth:** Only refined sugar is problematic. **Fact:** Natural sources (fruit, honey) also provide glucose that can glycate when consumed in excess. The overall glycemic load of the diet matters most. **Myth:** A DNA test can tell you if you are especially prone to sugar-induced skin aging. **Fact:** Some genes (e.g., AGER) are studied, but evidence is weak and not clinically validated. Such tests are marketing, not medicine. **Bottom line:** A balanced diet with moderate sugar intake, antioxidant-rich foods, and consistent sun protection is more evidence-based than any genetic test. Glucose-related skin aging is real, but its impact is often overstated.