A recent study conducted by scientists at the University of Florida found that drinking two glasses of non-alcoholic nutmeg wine daily for six weeks resulted in significant improvements in skin elasticity and water retention. This randomized clinical trial is the first of its kind to study the effects of non-alcoholic wine consumption on skin health.
The power of polyphenols
Previous studies have shown that nutmeg wine, which contains polyphenols such as quercetin, anthocyanins and ellagic acid, may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. These naturally occurring compounds are found in a variety of plants and are known for their antioxidant properties. In particular, Muscat grapes have a unique polyphenolic profile compared to other red wine varieties.
Lead author Lindsay Christman, a doctoral student in the Florida Department of Food Chemistry, explained, “Our study shows that Muscat wine polyphenols can improve skin health, particularly elasticity and transepidermal water loss, in middle-aged and older women.”
Study Methodology
Researchers recruited 17 women between the ages of 40 and 67 and randomly offered them to drink de-alcoholized wine made from Muscat grapes or a placebo that looked and tasted the same but did not contain polyphenols. Participants were asked to consume two glasses (300 milliliters or 10 ounces) of their chosen beverage daily for six weeks. After a three-week break, they switched to a different beverage for another six weeks.
Measuring skin condition
At the beginning and end of each six-week experiment, scientists measured the participants’ skin condition, inflammation and oxidative stress markers. The results showed that drinking nutmeg wine significantly increased skin elasticity and reduced water loss at the skin’s surface. This suggests that the skin provides a more effective barrier against aging-related damage. However, no significant differences in the number of wrinkles were observed.
Improved skin smoothness and reduced inflammation
Compared to baseline, participants also experienced improved skin smoothness and decreased inflammation and oxidative stress. However, there was no significant difference between muscat wine and placebo on these measures.
Further research is needed
Due to the small number of participants in this study, further studies with a larger and more diverse cohort are needed to confirm the findings. In addition, since most commercial nutmeg wines contain alcohol, it is important to examine the effects of nutmeg wines containing alcohol on skin health.
In conclusion, this study provides promising evidence that consumption of de-alcoholized nutmeg wine may have beneficial effects on skin elasticity and water retention. The unique polyphenolic profile of nutmeg grapes makes them a potential source for improving skin conditions associated with aging. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying these effects and to explore the potential benefits of alcoholic nutmeg wines.
