How Refined Carbs May Be Ruining Your Looks: New Study Reveals Surprising Link

Chronic consumption of refined carbohydrates can negatively impact facial appearance in both women and men, according to a recent study.

The typical diet in Western countries is rich in refined carbohydrates — also known as simple carbs, which are found in pastries, white bread, pasta made from white flour, honey, sweets, dairy products, and sugary drinks. These foods are known to contribute to health issues such as diabetes and obesity. However, researchers from the University of Montpellier in France have found that high consumption of simple carbs may also affect how a person looks.

The study involved 104 adults from France to examine how chronic intake of simple carbohydrates influences facial attractiveness. Dr. Claire Berticat, the lead author of the study, noted that “attractiveness — particularly facial attractiveness, is an important trait that impacts a wide range of key social outcomes.”

Some participants were given a high-glycemic breakfast rich in simple carbs, which caused a spike in blood sugar levels. The rest received a low-glycemic breakfast designed to stabilize blood sugar and improve mood and energy.

Roughly two hours after the meal, volunteers were asked to rate the participants’ facial appearance using photos taken at that time.

The researchers wrote: “Statistical analysis showed that consumption of a high-glycemic breakfast was associated with lower attractiveness ratings for both men and women. Chronic consumption of refined carbs at breakfast was also associated with lower attractiveness scores, although high-energy foods were linked to higher attractiveness ratings.”

“It seems that facial attractiveness, a critical factor in social interactions, is affected by both immediate and long-term consumption of refined carbohydrates in men and women,” the study concluded.

Dr. Berticat added, “Our findings serve as a powerful reminder of the far-reaching effects of dietary choices — not only on health but also on socially significant traits such as facial attractiveness. Investigating how refined carbohydrate consumption affects other traits influenced by sex hormones could yield important insights into the complex interplay between diet, biology, and social behavior.”