A recent study by Visine and colleagues at the University of Montpellier in France revealed a potential link between an individual’s consumption of refined carbohydrates and their perceived facial attractiveness by heterosexual volunteers of the opposite sex. The results of this study were published in the open access journal PLOS ONE.
The Western diet is notorious for being high in refined carbohydrates, which are foods processed in a way that often removes much of their nutritional value. Common examples include white flour, table sugar, and additives found in many packaged snacks. Previous research has shown a link between increased consumption of refined carbohydrates and various adverse health outcomes such as obesity, type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease. There is also preliminary evidence to suggest that a high intake of refined carbohydrates may affect non-medical properties such as attractiveness.
To delve deeper into this possibility, Visine and colleagues conducted a study involving 104 French adult participants of both sexes. Some participants were given a high-glycemic breakfast containing refined carbohydrates known to raise blood sugar, while others were given a low-glycemic breakfast. In addition, participants completed a questionnaire to assess their typical refined carbohydrate consumption habits. Subsequently, heterosexual volunteers were asked to rate the facial attractiveness of opposite-sex participants based on photographs taken two hours after breakfast. To minimize cultural heterogeneity, only individuals with four grandparents of European descent were included in the study.
Statistical analysis of the data revealed that consumption of a high-glycemic breakfast was associated with lower subsequent facial attractiveness ratings for both men and women. In addition, chronic consumption of refined carbohydrates during breakfast and snacks was also associated with lower attractiveness ratings, although consumption of high-energy foods at these times was associated with higher attractiveness ratings.
Interestingly, some notable gender differences were observed in the study. In men, high energy intake during the afternoon snack was associated with lower attractiveness ratings, while high glycemic intake was correlated with higher attractiveness ratings.
Importantly, these findings remained consistent after statistically adjusting for other factors that could potentially influence attractiveness, such as actual age, perceived age, BMI, smoking habits, and facial hair. However, the researchers emphasize the need for further research involving larger and more diverse sample sizes to gain a deeper understanding of the exact mechanisms underlying the relationship between refined carbohydrate consumption and attractiveness, as well as other social traits.
In summary, the study highlights the potential impact of immediate and chronic consumption of refined carbohydrates on facial attractiveness in both men and women. These findings shed light on the complex interplay between eating habits and social perception and highlight the importance of further research in this area.
