Pterostilbene is a compound found in small amounts in blueberries and other berries. It has been shown to have a number of potential health benefits, including the ability to improve brain function and lower cholesterol levels. One area where pterostilbene may be particularly useful is in increasing lifespan. In this article, we will explore the research on pterostilbene and its potential to extend lifespan and improve overall health in humans and animals.
What is Pterostilbene?
Pterostilbene is a stilbenoid, which is a type of compound that is found in plants. It is similar to another well-known compound called resveratrol, which is also found in red wine and has been studied for its potential health benefits. Pterostilbene is found in small amounts in blueberries, grapes, and other berries, as well as in the bark of certain trees.
Pterostilbene has a number of potential health benefits, including the ability to improve brain function and lower cholesterol levels. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals.
Longevity Benefits of Pterostilbene
One area where pterostilbene may be particularly useful is in increasing lifespan. In a study published in the journal Aging, researchers treated mice with pterostilbene and found that it increased their lifespan by about 20%. The mice treated with pterostilbene also had improved physical function and were less likely to develop age-related diseases such as cancer.
Another study published in the journal PLoS ONE found that pterostilbene was able to extend the lifespan of yeast cells. The yeast cells treated with pterostilbene lived about 40% longer than untreated cells. This suggests that pterostilbene may have the ability to delay the aging process in a variety of organisms.
There is also some evidence that pterostilbene may be able to improve overall health in humans. In a study published in the journal Nutrition Research, researchers gave pterostilbene supplements to overweight or obese individuals and found that it helped to lower their cholesterol levels and improve their overall health.
How Does Pterostilbene Work?
The exact mechanism by which pterostilbene increases lifespan is not fully understood. However, it is thought to work by activating certain pathways in the body that are involved in the aging process. For example, pterostilbene has been shown to activate the sirtuin pathway, which is involved in the regulation of aging and metabolism.
Pterostilbene may also work by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is involved in the regulation of energy metabolism. Activation of AMPK has been shown to have anti-aging effects in animals and may help to improve overall health in humans.
In addition to its effects on specific pathways, pterostilbene may also work by reducing inflammation and acting as an antioxidant. Inflammation and oxidative stress are thought to play a role in the aging process and may contribute to the development of age-related diseases.