Consuming refined carbs might be linked to perceived facial attractiveness

Consuming refined carbohydrates, such as white flour and table sugar, may have an impact on perceived facial attractiveness, according to a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Montpellier in France. The study, published in the open-access journal PLOS ONE, found a statistical link between participants’ consumption of refined carbs and their facial attractiveness, as rated by heterosexual volunteers of the opposite sex.

The Western diet, which is characterized by high levels of refined carbohydrates, has previously been associated with various health issues, including obesity, type II diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to explore whether high consumption of refined carbs could also affect non-medical traits, such as attractiveness.

The research involved 104 French male and female adults who were divided into two groups. One group received a high-glycemic breakfast, consisting of refined carbohydrates that raise blood sugar levels, while the other group received a low-glycemic breakfast. Participants also completed a questionnaire to assess their typical consumption habits of refined carbohydrates.

After two hours, photographs were taken of the participants, and heterosexual volunteers were asked to rate their facial attractiveness. To ensure consistency, only participants and volunteers with four European grandparents were included in the study.

The analysis revealed that consuming a high-glycemic breakfast was associated with lower subsequent facial attractiveness ratings for both men and women. Furthermore, chronic consumption of refined carbohydrates during breakfast and snacks was linked to lower attractiveness ratings. Interestingly, consuming high-energy foods during these times was associated with higher attractiveness ratings.

The study also found some sex differences in the results. In men, high-energy intake during afternoon snacking was associated with lower attractiveness ratings, while high-glycemic intake was linked to higher attractiveness ratings.

These findings remained significant even after accounting for other factors that could impact attractiveness, such as age, body mass index (BMI), smoking habits, and facial hairiness. However, the researchers emphasize the need for further research with larger and more diverse sample sizes to better understand the precise relationship between refined carbohydrates and attractiveness, as well as other social traits.

The authors of the study conclude that facial attractiveness, an important aspect of social interactions, appears to be influenced by immediate and chronic consumption of refined carbohydrates in both men and women.

For more information, the full study can be accessed for free at the following link: journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.137..