Page 57 - FoodFocusThailand No.228 March 2025

STRATEGIC R & D

Enzyme-Based Dietary Solutions to Slow Cellular
Skin Aging
Women often have a natural affinity for sweets. Yet, excessive
consumption of sugar and carbohydrates can accelerate
glycation. In this non-enzymatic reaction, blood sugar interacts
with biomolecules like proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids,
forming Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs). AGEs
contribute to oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular
degeneration, significantly affecting skin health by weakening
collagen and elastin, leading to reduced skin elasticity and
firmness .
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However, advancements in enzymatic technology have
enabled the transformation of ‘sucrose’ (commonly found in
table sugar and fruits) into ‘prebiotics’, particularly fructo-
oligosaccharides (FOS), which nourish beneficial gut
microbiota (probiotics). This technology can reduce sucrose
content in high-sugar fruit purees, such as durian, banana,
and mango, by up to 60%, making them viable ingredients in
healthier desserts like sorbets and cakes (figure 1).
Protecting Skin Aging from Reactive Oxygen Bioactive Compounds for Youthful
Species (ROS) using Bioactives in Foods and Healthy Skin
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) are one of the primary Advances in science and technology have enabled the use of
causes of skin aging. These molecules are byproducts of various bioactive compounds in skincare products to reduce
various biological processes and are influenced by both internal wrinkles, slow down cellular aging, and restore skin radiance.
and external factors, such as cellular metabolism, exposure These include Retinoids, vitamin A derivatives
to UV radiation from sunlight, and air pollution. While ROS are like retinol and retinaldehyde, which promote skin renewal,
naturally occurring, excessive accumulation can lead to skin stimulate collagen production, and reduce acne. Vitamin C is
cell damage, including the degradation of proteins, lipids, and an antioxidant that enhances collagen synthesis, reduces dark
nucleic acids. This results in premature skin aging, inflammation, spots, and protects against environmental damage. Products
and an increased risk of skin problems. Consuming foods rich with ascorbic acid or stable forms like sodium ascorbyl
in antioxidants can help protect the body from oxidative damage phosphate offer optimal skin benefits. Vitamin E, which
while also promoting healthy skin . For instance, vitamin C maintains moisture, reduces inflammation, and shields against
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(L-ascorbic acid)—commonly found in citrus fruits like UV rays. Tocotrienols, a potent form of vitamin E, penetrate the
oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and papayas—plays a key role skin more effectively. Ubiquinone/Ubiquinol boosts cellular
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in collagen synthesis . Papayas are also rich in beta-carotene, energy, reduces wrinkles, and protects against oxidative stress.
a precursor of vitamin A, which is essential for skin health. Zinc is essential for skin repair, wound healing, and oil
Vitamin A and its derivatives, such as retinoids, regulate skin regulation. Zinc oxide is a key ingredient in sunscreens and
thickness, melanin distribution, and sebaceous gland function . acne treatments due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial
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Astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant found in red algae, properties. Procyanidins protect collagen and elastin, reduce
belongs to the carotenoid family and helps reduce wrinkles, wrinkles, and prevent skin degradation. Collagen tripeptides,
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improve skin elasticity, and prevent moisture loss . Vitamin E, strengthen the skin, stimulate collagen production, and enhance
found in avocados, sunflower oil, rice bran oil, oats, and tissue repair; as well as Copper peptides also support skin
walnuts, particularly in the form of tocotrienols, protects the regeneration, etc.
skin by preventing lipid oxidation, maintaining moisture, However, whether it is topical skincare products or dietary
reducing inflammation, and shielding against UV damage . supplements that have been reported to benefit the skin, the
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Additionally, procyanidins, bioactive compounds found in key is to prioritize a diverse and nutritious diet to ensure the
green tea and berries (blueberries, raspberries, and body receives all essential nutrients for sustainable skin
cranberries), act as antioxidants that protect skin cells from health. Additionally, getting enough rest, exercising regularly,
oxidative damage while inhibiting enzymes that break down and managing stress properly play a crucial role in maintaining
collagen and elastin, thus maintaining skin firmness and good mental health, which in turn helps the skin radiate from
reducing inflammation . Selenium, abundant in salmon and within.
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Brazil nuts, supports antioxidant enzymes like glutathione
peroxidase, helping to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation,
and enhance skin immunity.
Given modern lifestyles, many of these bioactive Scan QR code for references.
compounds are available as dietary supplements to serve the
needs of today’s women. However, while their skin benefits
are well-documented, proper dosage and bioavailability must
be considered, as absorption rates vary by individual, gender, More Information Service Info C008
and age.

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