5 Ways Sugar May Be Wreaking Havoc on Your Mind and Body

We know—that new forehead wrinkle could be the result of factors like genetics and UV rays. But one more potential culprit: sugar. "High added-sugar intake impacts collagen production and damages it, aging skin faster," says Liz Weinandy, a registered dietician at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. The effect has been described as sugar sag, because sugar can degrade the supportive structures of skin, leading to premature sagging and wrinkling. "Sugar consumption also contributes to low-grade inflammation in the body, which may lead to acne," she says.