A study conducted by the University of Montpellier in France suggests that consuming refined carbohydrates for breakfast may negatively impact one’s perceived attractiveness. The research, which involved 104 French adults, explored the link between high glycemic foods, such as white bread, pastries, and sugary snacks, and lower facial attractiveness ratings. Participants were given either a high-glycaemic or low-glycaemic breakfast, with findings indicating that those who ate foods causing a spike in blood sugar levels were rated as less attractive compared to their counterparts who consumed low-glycaemic foods such as fruits, nuts, and eggs.

The study also uncovered gender-specific differences in how snack consumption affects attractiveness, noting that men and women respond differently to high-glycaemic intake. Researchers pointed out the need for further investigation with a larger and more diverse sample size to fully understand the implications of refined carbohydrate consumption on social traits like attractiveness.

These findings emphasize the potential socio-biological consequences of dietary choices, suggesting that opting for healthier breakfast options might not only benefit physical health but also influence social perceptions of attractiveness. The study’s results have been published in Plos One, highlighting the broader impact of diet on aspects such as skin health and aging, as well as the importance of considering food intake in the context of interpersonal interactions and perceptions.