Plastic Surgeon Warns Against Six Common Foods That May Accelerate Aging and Shorten Lifespan

Dr. Anthony Youn outlines dietary choices that could impact longevity and skin health. A prominent plastic surgeon with two decades of experience is sounding the alarm on everyday foods that he says can prematurely age the body and shorten lifespan.

Dr. Anthony Youn, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon and anti-aging expert, has identified six types of foods he refuses to eat, citing their harmful effects on cellular health and aging.

Cookies | Source: Pexels

“Food is medicine,” Youn stated, adding that while cosmetic procedures may improve appearance, they do not reverse the biological aging process. “Eating the wrong ones can age your insides, degrade your skin and even shorten your life.”

According to Dr. Youn, the top offenders include:

Burnt and Charred Foods – Grilled meats and other charred items produce heterocyclic amines, compounds linked to cancer and accelerated aging.

Sugary Beverages – These drive inflammation and glycation. “One study attributed 184,000 deaths every year to the effects of drinking sugary drinks,” he noted.

Snack Foods – Ultra-processed items like chips and cookies are low in fiber and high in additives, contributing to insulin spikes and poor gut health.

Most Dairy Products – Youn advises caution due to lactose intolerance and the inflammatory protein casein, though he allows for unsweetened yogurt.

Cheese | Source: Pexels

Super Salty Foods – High sodium intake can cause water retention and puffiness, particularly noticeable after salty meals.

To promote healthier aging, Dr. Youn recommends whole fruits, vegetables, and unprocessed grains, along with wild-caught seafood and grass-fed meats. Still, he acknowledges the importance of occasional indulgence: “A tasty splurge is totally fine every once in a while.”