What if eating colorful fruits and veggies could make you more attractive? Science says it can! In this episode of Smartest Year Ever, Gordy dives into the fascinating link between carotenoids—the pigments found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and watermelons—and your skin's natural glow. Discover how these pigments give you a subtle golden tone that studies show is universally perceived as healthier and more attractive. But don’t worry, Gordy also explains how to avoid going too far and turning orange! 🍊
In today’s episode:
What are carotenoids, and how do they work?
The science behind their effects on attractiveness and health.
Why eating veggies beats beta-carotene supplements.
The surprising difference between a carotenoid glow and a suntan.
The fine line between glowing and carotenemia (yes, that’s a thing!).
Sources:
Stephen, I. D., & Perrett, D. I. (2010). Effects of skin color on perceptions of attractiveness. Evolution and Human Behavior.
Whitehead, R. D., et al. (2012). You are what you eat: within-subject increases in fruit and vegetable consumption. PLoS ONE.
Lefevre, C. E., & Perrett, D. I. (2014). Fruit over sun: Carotenoid skin coloration. Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology.
Follow Gordy on this journey to the world’s greatest conversations:
YouTube: @SmartestYearEver
Spotify, Apple Podcasts: Smartest Year Ever
Instagram, TikTok: @SmartestYearEver
Stay curious. Stay clever. See you tomorrow in the Smartest Year Ever!
