Pterostilbes

What is pterostilbene?

Pterostilbene is a nutrient that has gained attention in recent years due to its potential health benefits. Similar to resveratrol, the vital substance belongs to a class of natural substances known as stilbenes, which are found in various plant species. However, pterostilbene has a much higher bioavailability compared to conventional resveratrol and other stilbenes, as it has two methoxy groups which result in increased lipophilicity (solubility in fats) and oral absorption. With resveratrol however, there are now forms that achieve a comparable bioavailability.

Where does pterostilbene occur?

It is known to be present in certain fruits such as blueberries and grapes. One study found that grapes, as expected, were particularly high in pterostilbene (6,471 ng per g dry matter). The high concentration in cranberries (5,884 ng per g dry matter) was particularly surprising.

What benefits does pterostilbene offer the human body?

Although much of the evidence is based on animal studies, a human study in which subjects took 250 mg per day concluded that no clinical or biochemical signs of toxicity could be detected.

Antioxidant effect

Pterostilbene has a strong antioxidant effect that helps to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to ageing and various chronic diseases. By reducing oxidative stress, the molecule could help protect against age-related cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.

Reduction of blood pressure with high cholesterol levels

Researchers conducted a study with 80 participants who had high cholesterol levels. The participants were divided into four groups and received different treatments: Pterostilbene alone at two different doses, Pterostilbene in combination with grape extract, or a placebo. The study lasted 6-8 weeks and the researchers measured the changes in lipids (e.g. cholesterol), blood pressure and weight.

The results showed that LDL (bad cholesterol) increased in the groups receiving pterostilbene alone, but not in the group receiving the molecule in combination with grape extract. However, the LDL increase appeared to be lower in the participants who were already taking cholesterol medication. On the other hand, both systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly in the group that received a higher dose of pterostilbene. In addition, the participants who did not take cholesterol medication lost some weight with the vital substance.

Inflammation of the nervous system

A study investigated the protective effect of bilberry extract and its components on microglia, a type of cell involved in inflammation. The researchers found that both bilberry extract and its individual components, such as pterostilbene and resveratrol, reduce inflammation-related signals in microglia. However, higher concentrations of the individual components were required than those found in bilberries.

Diabetes management

In diabetic rats, a six-week treatment with 40 mg/kg pterostilbene led to a reduction in blood glucose levels and an increase in insulin levels. After a hamster with high cholesterol levels was given a diet enriched with 25 micrograms/kg pterostilbene, its blood glucose level fell by 14%.

You can find out more about this topic in our insulin resistance article.

Pterostilbene and Longevity

Recent studies have shown that polyphenols such as pterostilbene can have a significant impact on longevity and age-related diseases. Pterostilbene is a polyphenol found in blueberries and other plants that has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve the epigenome, protect DNA and slow down ageing.

Did you know?

Epigenetic changes are a key aspect of longevity research. You can think of epigenetics as the volume control on a music system. Through various influences, e.g. through our diet, sport but also environmental influences, certain areas of our DNA can be activated with the help of epigenetics, or to stick with the analogy, the volume controls are turned up. This research is, among other things, the basis for biological age and its measurement. Another step is research into the proteome, where the proteins produced in a cell are analyzed. This is the basis for testing your molecular profile. You can find out more about this in our what is proteomics article.

Pterostilbene has been studied for its potential anti-aging effects in both humans and animals. In one study with fruit flies, it was found that dietary supplementation with pterostilbene increased the average life expectancy of both male and female flies. In another study, pterostilbene was found to activate molecular pathways associated with longevity downstream of those activated by resveratrol, enhancing its anti-aging effects.

In addition to its potential anti-aging effects, pterostilbene may also offer other health benefits. It has been studied for its ability to fight infections and improve cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol and preventing coronary heart disease. It may also help protect against oxidative damage from free radicals.

Overall, research suggests that pterostilbene may be a useful supplement to slow aging and provide other health benefits. However, more research is needed to understand the full extent of its effects on longevity and overall health.