Although many resort to expensive creams and treatments, we often overlook that true care begins on the plate. As experts in traditional remedies and practices, we want to introduce you to how certain foods can affect the health of your skin.

1. White bread and pasta: hidden enemies of your skin
   
   
   
   In the past, our ancestors consumed whole grains, but today we often opt for refined products like white bread and pasta. These foods have a high glycemic index, which means they quickly raise blood sugar levels. This can lead to increased insulin production, which stimulates sebum production - the oil secreted by the sebaceous glands. Excessive sebum production can lead to clogged pores and consequently to acne. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology showed that a high glycemic index diet increases the severity of acne.
   
2. Salt: more than just a spice
   
   
   
   Salt is essential in cooking, but excessive consumption, especially of iodized salt, can negatively affect the skin. Iodine in salt can cause inflammatory reactions in some individuals, manifesting as acne. Additionally, an excessive amount of sodium can lead to water retention in the body, resulting in facial puffiness and dark circles. Research has shown that a high sodium diet increases inflammatory processes in the body, which can worsen skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
   
3. Sugar: sweet enemy of youthful skin
   
   
   
   Sugar is not only harmful to teeth and physique, but also to the skin. Excessive sugar consumption leads to a process called glycation, where sugar binds to proteins such as collagen and elastin, essential for skin elasticity and firmness. This process leads to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that accelerate skin aging, the formation of wrinkles, and loss of radiance.
   
4. Alcohol: dehydration and inflammation
   
   
   
   While a glass of wine with dinner is not harmful, excessive alcohol consumption can seriously affect skin health. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, increasing water excretion from the body, leading to dehydration. Dehydrated skin loses its radiance, becomes dry, and more prone to wrinkles. Additionally, alcohol dilates blood vessels, which can cause redness and inflammation, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.
   
5. Fried food: a greasy trap for the skin
   
   
   
   Fried food, rich in unhealthy fats, not only affects the heart and weight but also the skin. Frequent consumption of fried food can increase inflammatory processes in the body, which can manifest on the skin as acne and an uneven complexion. A study has shown that consuming fried food at least three times a week increases the risk of worsening acne by 84%.

Your skin is a reflection of your lifestyle and diet. By choosing whole foods, reducing intake of sugar, salt, and alcohol, and consuming fried foods in moderation, you can significantly contribute to the health and radiance of your skin. Let's remember the wisdom of our ancestors who believed that nature is the best healer - let's listen to it and nurture our bodies from the inside out.