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When it comes to maintaining youthful-looking skin, most people focus on skincare products, collagen powders, and anti-aging treatments. But according to naturopathic doctor Dr. Janine Bowring, some of the biggest culprits behind premature aging may actually be hiding in your daily drink choices.
In a recent YouTube video, Dr. Bowring revealed the three drinks she believes can accelerate visible aging by damaging collagen, disrupting the microbiome, and impacting overall skin health. And while some picks may seem obvious, one in particular may disappoint people who enjoy unwinding with a nightly cocktail.
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1. Soda
At the top of Dr. Bowring’s list is soda—or “pop,” as she jokingly noted Canadians call it. According to her, sugary soft drinks can contribute significantly to skin aging because of a process called glycation.
Regular soda contains high amounts of sugar, which she says can cause collagen fibers to stiffen and weaken over time. “It contains sugar… which causes glycation, which causes the cross-linking of your collagen fibers and causes that aging so much more quickly,” she explained.
Collagen is what helps keep skin firm, smooth, and elastic, so when it becomes damaged, fine lines and sagging may become more noticeable.
Dr. Bowring also warned that diet sodas may not be much better. Artificial sweeteners, she claims, can negatively affect the gut microbiome and immune system, potentially contributing to collagen loss and inflammation as well.
2. Energy Drinks
Energy drinks came in second on Dr. Bowring’s list of the worst beverages for aging. While many people rely on them for quick energy boosts, she says they may be harsher on the body than traditional caffeinated beverages like coffee or tea.
“Unfortunately they have caffeine and they don't have the antioxidants that come naturally in coffee and tea,” she explained. Those antioxidants can help offset some of the oxidative stress associated with caffeine consumption.
Without those protective compounds, Dr. Bowring says energy drinks may contribute to faster aging over time, especially when consumed regularly. Many energy drinks are also loaded with sugar, artificial flavorings, and additives that may further impact skin health and hydration.
3. Alcohol
Finally, Dr. Bowring named alcohol as one of the worst drinks for premature aging—a choice she admitted may disappoint many viewers.
In addition to often containing large amounts of sugar, she explained that alcohol can disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria in the gut. “Your microbiome is also wiped out with alcohol,” she said, comparing it to how alcohol is used to disinfect wounds by killing bacteria.
According to Dr. Bowring, drinking alcohol may reduce beneficial probiotics in the body, which can then impact collagen production and skin barrier function. When the skin barrier becomes compromised, skin may appear drier, duller, and more prone to irritation and visible aging.
Alcohol is also known to contribute to dehydration, which can temporarily make fine lines and skin texture appear more pronounced.
The Bottom Line
While no single drink instantly causes wrinkles overnight, experts say consistent habits can add up over time when it comes to skin health and aging. Dr. Bowring’s advice highlights how sugar, artificial additives, and gut health may all play a role in maintaining healthy collagen and a strong skin barrier. If you’re looking to support healthier, more youthful-looking skin, many dermatologists and wellness experts recommend focusing on hydration, antioxidant-rich foods and beverages, balanced nutrition, and limiting heavily processed drinks whenever possible.
