Grapes May Protect Skin From Sun Damage, Study Finds

Your next grocery run might include a simple addition that helps protect your skin from the inside out.

Scientists at Western New England University discovered that eating grapes regularly changes gene expression in ways that defend skin against sun damage. The study, published in ACS Nutrition Science, shows grapes trigger protective changes in DNA.

Researchers recruited volunteers who first followed a restricted diet for two weeks to establish a baseline. Then participants ate the equivalent of three daily servings of whole grapes in a concentrated, freeze-dried powder form for another two weeks.

The team collected small skin samples before and after the grape diet, testing them under normal conditions and after low-dose ultraviolet light exposure. Everyone's baseline gene activity was unique, but patterns shifted noticeably after eating grapes, especially when combined with UV exposure.

The results revealed something remarkable. Normally, UV rays cause skin to produce malondialdehyde, a chemical signaling cellular damage. After the grape diet, volunteers showed significantly less of this harmful substance.

"We are now certain that grapes act as a superfood and mediate a nutrigenomic response in humans," said John Pezzuto, PhD, professor and dean of the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at Western New England University. The changes in gene expression pointed to clear improvements in skin health.

The Bright Side

While this study focused on skin, the protective effects likely extend throughout the body. Pezzuto noted that grape consumption probably affects gene expression in other tissues including the liver, muscles, kidneys, and even the brain.

The research does have limitations. Only four female participants with similar skin types provided complete data, so the findings may not apply to everyone. The study also used concentrated grape powder rather than casual snacking amounts.

Researchers emphasized that grapes cannot replace sunscreen or sun-safe habits. However, adding grapes to your diet could provide an extra layer of cellular protection while you enjoy a naturally sweet, healthy snack.

The discovery opens exciting possibilities for understanding how everyday foods can activate our body's built-in defense systems at the genetic level.