If you thought you only had to worry about sun exposure, stress and smoking - think again. Recent studies have also shown that there a number of foods that have the potential to boost the rate at which we wrinkle, and make us age faster.

REFINED SUGAR

Too much sugar damages collagen and elastin, which is a key factor to keeping skin firm and radiant. When collagen becomes damaged, it causes skin to become dry, brittle, and loose. When your diet contains too much refined sugar you lower your body’s natural ability to produce antioxidant enzymes, which makes the skin more susceptible to sun damage, a major contributor to skin aging.

ALCOHOL

Drinking alcohol robs your skin of the essential hydration and glow. Alcohol dehydrates your skin, hydration is so important to retaining skin elasticity and firmness. Anything that robs your skin of that much needed H20 can really show up as wrinkles and texture on your face.

Alcohol also robs our bodies of B vitamins and vitamins A and C, which are vital for skin and overall health. Excessive alcohol consumption depletes minerals including magnesium and zinc, as well as essential fatty acids, all of which are needed to slow down the onset of premature ageing.

An overindulgence in alcohol can also lead to poor quality of sleep. Sleep is such an important factor to your overall health and wellness.

Many people who drink regularly have skin issues such as acne, rosacea, or wrinkles.

PROCESSED MEATS

Think of bacon, sausage and deli meats.

Many of these meats have sulfites and other preservatives, which can trigger inflammation in the skin, and accelerate the appearance of aging

The high salt content in process meat adds to puffiness and leave your skin not looking its best.

With the Christmas season almost upon us, it is important to realize what you put on your plate or in your glass might affect what you see in the mirror.

The key approach? Moderation, eating better and drinking more water.