A recent study in the journal Nutrients investigates how a cranberry beverage rich in polyphenols affects skin health, lipids, and the microbiome in women.
Understanding Skin Aging
Skin aging occurs through two main processes: intrinsic aging, caused by the natural buildup of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and extrinsic aging, linked to factors like sun exposure and pollution. Both types lead to oxidative stress and inflammation. The skin microbiota, made up of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, plays a key role in maintaining skin health. Polyphenols, known for their antioxidant properties, may help slow skin aging.
Study Details
The researchers created a polyphenol-rich cranberry drink using concentrated cranberry juice, packaged in eight-ounce bottles by Ocean Spray Cranberries. Each bottle contained significant amounts of procyanidins, anthocyanins, and flavonols. A placebo drink mimicked the cranberry beverage without active compounds.
Conducted at the University of Florida, this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial included 24 women aged 25 to 65 with specific skin types. Participants consumed either the cranberry beverage or the placebo for six weeks, followed by a three-week washout before switching treatments. Skin parameters such as elasticity and hydration were measured, along with blood samples for oxidative stress analysis.
Findings
Of the initial 24 participants, 22 completed both treatment phases. The researchers noted no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. However, due to technical difficulties, skin lipid analysis included 20 participants, while microbiome analysis involved 12.
Women who consumed the cranberry beverage showed a significant reduction in UV-induced erythema compared to the placebo group. Improvements were particularly notable in women aged 40 and older. Additionally, those consuming cranberry juice experienced better facial elasticity and smoothness, with marked effects in older participants.
The beverage also decreased trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and enhanced skin elasticity. Blood analysis revealed increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, along with reduced tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels, particularly in older women.
Lipid analysis indicated distinct differences between the two groups. While overall microbial diversity was unaffected, the cranberry beverage altered specific microbial populations associated with skin health.
Conclusion
The cranberry beverage not only protected against UV-induced damage but also improved skin elasticity, particularly in older women. It modulated skin lipids and altered the skin microbiome’s composition, positively influencing certain beneficial bacterial strains. Overall, older participants experienced greater benefits from this dietary intervention.
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