We already know that refined foods can take a toll on our bodies, organs, and appearance over time, but new research suggests the effects on attractiveness can be almost instantaneous! Just two hours after a high-sugar meal, changes in perceived facial attractiveness were detectable.
In a study from the University of Montpellier, France, 104 participants were given either a high-glycemic breakfast (think corn flakes or potatoes) or a low-glycemic meal (like steel-cut oats or eggs). Two hours later, photos were taken, and heterosexual participants, carefully recruited to reduce bias, rated the facial attractiveness of opposite-sex participants. Those who had eaten the high-glycemic meal were consistently rated as less attractive, suggesting that sugar may affect more than just your energy levels, it might even change how others see you.
“We were initially intrigued by the profound impact of our food choices on our physiology,” said study author Claire Berticat of the Institute of Evolutionary Science of Montpellier. “While the effects of refined carbohydrates on certain hormones are well-documented, it is less known that sex hormones can also be affected. Certain traits, such as facial attractiveness, are influenced by sex hormones. Thus the possibility of uncovering a previously unexplored connection between refined carbohydrate consumption and attractiveness was highly appealing.”
