The study aimed to paint a picture of how polyphenols, found in grapes, can reduce acute UV radiation damage in healthy adults.
In the study, nineteen healthy participants consumed freeze-dried grape powder for fourteen days and researchers noted a 74.8 percent increase in natural protection of the skin from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. Previous studies on mice showed that polyphenols could reduce acute UV radiation damage, but this study is the first that shows oral ingestion of freeze-dried grapes may have a positive effect on sunburn in humans. Furthermore, the consumption of freeze-dried grapes can decrease proteins in the body that promote inflammation.
Researchers were quick to point out that this subject requires more studies and that freeze-dried grapes should not be used in lieu of sunscreen, but that they could supplement and add additional protective properties against sunburns.