Could sugar – a seemingly innocent treat – be doing more harm than we realise?
For us as parents, sugars, particularly refined can lead to a deeper impact: not just on our overall health, but on our skin, our energy, and even our mental clarity. And yes, it’s doing the same to our children.
One critical way sugar harms is through glycation – a process where sugar binds to collagen, causing it to become brittle and weak. This leads to premature skin ageing, loss of elasticity, and damage to the very structure that keeps skin firm and youthful.
But that’s not all. Sugar also disrupts the body’s natural pH balance.
Our bodies need to be slightly alkaline – between 7.35 and 7.45 whilst our surface skin needs to be slightly acidic – between 4.5 to 5.5 to host the protective biome and ‘Acid Mantle’. This is the very fine, slightly acidic film on the surface of the skin that acts as a barrier.
While our skin thrives with a slightly acidic surface (the protective Acid Mantle), the body’s internal systems work best in a slightly alkaline environment. Sugar throws this delicate balance into chaos, weakening the skin’s natural defenses and inviting inflammation.
And let’s not forget, periods of hormonal changes like menstruation or menopause add even more stress to the skin. These are moments when your body needs balance the most.
As conscious parents, we can lead by example. Choosing whole foods, reducing sugar, and staying mindful of what we consume and ‘treat’ to our little ones, not only supports our skin health but sets a foundation for our children’s wellbeing too.
Balance is key.
Nourish your skin and your body by cutting down on sugar. Let your lifestyle choices reflect the glowing health you want to pass on.