Daily Grapes Alter Skin Genes After 2 Weeks, Boosting UV Defense
Updated
Updated · ScienceDaily · May 22
Daily Grapes Alter Skin Genes After 2 Weeks, Boosting UV Defense
7 articles · Updated · ScienceDaily · May 22
Two weeks of eating three servings of whole grapes daily changed skin gene expression in all study participants, with researchers linking the shifts to stronger protection against UV damage.
Gene activity pointed to increased keratinization and cornification—processes that build the skin’s outer barrier—while low-dose UV tests showed lower malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress.
Earlier clinical trials had found improved UV resistance in about 30% to 50% of people; the new ACS Nutrition Science study suggests grape-related effects on skin biology may be broader, even if responses differ by person.
Western New England University and Oregon State University researchers said the findings support a wider nutrigenomic effect of grapes beyond skin, though the study was funded by the California Table Grape Commission.
If grapes can reprogram your skin's genes for sun defense, what other foods are changing your DNA?
Can eating grapes daily provide a measurable SPF, potentially altering the future of sun protection?