Scientists from the Western New England University in Springfield (USA) found that the consumption of grape powder can protect the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. The results were published in the journal antioxidants.
29 volunteers participated in the study. They consumed grape powder equivalent to 2.25 cups of grapes per day for 14 days. The reaction of the subjects’ skin to UV radiation was measured at the beginning and end of the study.
One-third of the participants developed increased resistance to sunburn after two weeks. Additionally, they found changes in the gut microbiome, which the authors believe are responsible for the protective effect. Scientists believe that the natural components of grapes – polyphenols – affect gut bacteria.
It was previously estimated that 1 in 5 Americans would develop skin cancer by age 70. Most skin cancers are associated with exposure to solar UV radiation: approximately 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers and 86% of melanomas, respectively. It is also estimated that 90% of skin aging is caused by the sun.