Some of today’s trendiest foods may taste amazing or even look healthy, but the reality is they could be aging your body faster than normal. These are the 10 trending foods that can mess with your energy, damage your skin, and make you feel older than you are.
10. Fried Chicken Sandwiches
In case you haven’t noticed, fast food chains across the US are still in a race to create the crispiest and most flavorful chicken sandwich. Fried chicken, which is cooked at high temperatures, creates dangerous compounds called AGEs that cause chronic inflammation and damage the skin’s collagen.
9. Ramen Carbonara
Remember the Buldak Carbonara Ramen that sent social media users scrambling to stores? If you’re one of them, then know that this rich comfort food also has its downs. First, instant ramen noodles are ultra-processed. Second, the sauce contains high amounts of saturated amounts. Combine these two and you’ll get another dish that also triggers inflammation, which is linked to aging.
8. Energy Drinks
Energy drink consumption is booming and it’s obvious in how this year’s summer sips are infused with this functional beverage. The problem is energy drinks are high in sugar, which increases weight gain and contributes to developing cardiovascular issues over time. The sugar rush also creates AGEs that damage protein in your organs and skin.
7. Plant-Based Deli Meats
As more Americans look for healthier food alternatives, plant-based deli meats started getting more attention. However, many plant-based deli meats are still ultra-processed, containing preservatives, additives, and artificial flavors. Processed foods are linked to inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key drivers of premature aging.
6. Charred BBQ
BBQ culture is booming what with all the backyard grilling during summer and the expansion of BBQ restaurants nationwide. The problem isn’t the meat itself, but the burnt or blackened areas that produce AGEs. Additionally, you’d have to think about HCAs, which form when the meat is cooked at high temperatures. HCAs have been linked to increased risk in certain cancers.
5. Dirty Sodas
Dirty sodas are trending again, bringing with them the vibes we all need—cozy and indulgent. These drinks, however, often come with creamers and syrups, which are the very ingredients you should be avoiding. They are loaded with trans fats and artificial flavors, which trigger inflammation that accelerates aging externally and internally.
4. Gourmet Hot Dogs
Hot dogs with artisanal toppings, anyone? While they may look fun, these foods can speed up aging. Gourmet hot dogs can have high levels of sodium, causing puffiness and hypertension that make you look and feel older. If grilled, fried, or charred, these hot dogs will also contain AGEs. If fatty toppings are included, these could further spike your blood sugar and damage your skin over time.
3. Korean Fried Chicken
Korean food culture has gone global, and the rise of Korean fried chicken is proof of that. Glazes like sweet chili, honey, and soy garlic elevate fried food from basic to gourmet street food. Sadly, those glazes often contain corn syrup, refined sugar, and starches—a combo that spikes insulin and increases collagen damage. And don’t forget: double frying = high levels of AGEs.
2. Gummy Candies
The Y2K aesthetic is bringing back candy-colored everything, and these include gummy candies in desserts! And let’s be honest: the chewy contrast from these candies are irresistible! But you know how it goes…sugary snacks trigger inflammation. Gummy candies also offer no vitamins and minerals, so they’re basically displacing more nourishing foods.
1. Iced Coffee Drinks
Will coffee drinks ever go out of style? We think not anytime soon. They’re comforting and always social-media ready. However, certain kinds can quietly sabotage your health. Look out for those with too much added sugars as they can contribute to collagen breakdown. Artificial flavors also disrupt your gut microbiome, which can impact skin clarity, mood, and immune function.