Healthy, glowing skin is not just about skincare products what you eat may also play an important role in improving skin health. According to recent research, regularly eating grapes could help strengthen the skin’s natural defence against sun damage and environmental stress.
A new study published in ACS Nutrition Science has suggested that grapes may offer significant benefits for skin health by improving the skin’s protective barrier and reducing oxidative stress.
Study Shows Positive Impact Of Grapes On Skin Health
In the study, volunteers consumed the equivalent of around three servings of whole grapes daily for two weeks. Researchers then analysed changes in gene expression in the participants’ skin before and after grape consumption, both with and without exposure to low levels of UV radiation.
The findings revealed noticeable improvements in skin-related biological processes after grape consumption.
Researchers observed that grapes influenced gene expression in ways that supported healthier skin function across all participants, although individual responses varied.
Grapes May Strengthen Skin’s Protective Barrier
The study found increased keratinisation and cornification in participants’ skin after regular grape consumption.
These are natural biological processes that help form the skin’s outer protective layer, which plays a major role in defending the body against environmental damage, pollution, and harmful UV exposure.
Researchers also found lower levels of malondialdehyde, a marker linked to oxidative stress. Reduced oxidative stress may help minimise skin damage caused by free radicals and sun exposure.
Experts Call Grapes A ‘Superfood’
John Pezzuto, PhD, Professor and Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at Western New England University, stated that the research strongly supports grapes as a nutrigenomic superfood.
According to him, the study demonstrated that grape consumption can positively influence gene expression in human skin and potentially other organs in the body as well.
Researchers believe the benefits of grapes may extend beyond skin health and could potentially impact organs such as the liver, muscles, kidneys, and brain.
How Much Grapes Should You Eat?
Researchers suggest consuming around three servings of grapes daily to experience the potential benefits observed in the study.
This is approximately:
- One cup of grapes per serving
- Around three cups daily
Grapes can be enjoyed in several ways, including:
- As a healthy snack
- Added to salads
- Frozen as a refreshing dessert
- Mixed into smoothies
Grapes Are Helpful — But Not A Sunscreen Replacement
Experts emphasise that while grapes may help support the skin’s natural defence against UV damage, they should not replace sunscreen or proper sun protection measures.
However, including grapes as part of a balanced diet may help the skin better manage environmental stress and support overall skin wellness naturally.
The research further highlights how nutrition can directly influence skin health and overall wellbeing through changes at the genetic and cellular level.