It’s called pterostilbene (terro-STILL-bene), the predominant polyphenol antioxidant found in blueberries.
This means that your body may be able to use it more efficiently and effectively.
Pterostilbene health benefits.
Pterostilbene may help slow the aging process.
Oxidative stress is basically an imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals in your body.
In general, it wreaks havoc on your body and speeds the overall aging process.
The good news is that pterostilbene is a potent free radical fighter that reducesoxidative stress5.
It may help fight or prevent cancer.
Similar toresveratrol, pterostilbene is anti-carcinogenic.
Pterostilbene may boost brain health and prevent Alzheimer’s.
Berries also contain flavonoid antioxidants calledanthocyanins, which likely play an important role in brain and overall health14.
It may reduce your risk for heart disease.
Pterostilbene may improve overall cardiovascular health.
The participants who weren’t on cholesterol-lowering medication also experienced minor weight loss.
Pterostilbene may help regulate blood sugar and manage diabetes.
Oneproposed mechanism17for regulating blood sugar is that pterostilbene reduces oxidative stress in the liver and kidneys.
Natural sources of pterostilbene.
Other plant sources of pterostilbene do exist, but they’re not necessarily edible.
Should you take a pterostilbene supplement?
Given the exciting benefits described above, reaching for a pterostilbene supplement may seem like a no-brainer.
But before you do, understand that studies haven’t fully evaluated the safety of taking them long term.
However, from the few studies thathavebeen done on humans, these supplements appear to be safe.
Plus, the participants taking the pterostilbene experienced a reduction in blood pressure.
More studies are certainly needed.
The bottom line on pterostilbene.
The benefits of pterostilbene are promising, and supplements are likely safe for most people.
Andhere’s our takeon resveratrol.
