What is Pterostilbene?
Pterostilbene is a natural stilbenoid compound found primarily in blueberries and the Indian Kino tree (Pterocarpus marsupium). It's structurally similar to resveratrol but with two key differences: two methyl groups replace hydroxyl groups, making it more lipophilic and significantly improving bioavailability.
This superior absorption means pterostilbene reaches higher blood concentrations and persists longer in the body than resveratrol, potentially providing greater therapeutic benefit at lower doses.
Like resveratrol, pterostilbene activates sirtuins - the "longevity genes" that regulate cellular metabolism, stress resistance, and aging. However, its improved pharmacokinetics make it a more efficient SIRT1 activator.
Pterostilbene vs Resveratrol
While both compounds share similar mechanisms, pterostilbene offers distinct pharmacological advantages that make it the preferred choice for many longevity enthusiasts:
Key Advantages of Pterostilbene
- 4x Better Absorption: Higher bioavailability means more reaches your cells
- Longer Half-Life: Stays in circulation longer for sustained effect
- Crosses Blood-Brain Barrier: More effectively protects the brain
- More Lipophilic: Enters cell membranes more easily
- Lower Doses Needed: 100-250mg vs 500-1000mg resveratrol
Sirtuin Activation
Pterostilbene's primary anti-aging mechanism is activation of SIRT1, a NAD+-dependent deacetylase that regulates numerous longevity-related pathways. SIRT1 activation mimics the effects of caloric restriction, one of the few proven life-extension interventions.
Research shows pterostilbene upregulates SIRT1 expression by approximately 30%, enhancing mitochondrial function, insulin sensitivity, and cellular stress resistance. This effect is amplified when combined with NAD+ precursors like NMN or NR.
Beyond SIRT1, pterostilbene activates AMPK (the cellular energy sensor), inhibits mTOR (promoting autophagy), and reduces NF-kB (decreasing inflammation).
Brain Health Benefits
Pterostilbene's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier makes it particularly valuable for neuroprotection. It accumulates in brain tissue at higher concentrations than resveratrol, providing superior cognitive support.
Animal studies have shown pterostilbene improves memory, reduces neuroinflammation, and protects against age-related cognitive decline. It also supports dopamine and serotonin signaling, potentially benefiting mood and motivation.
Clinical research suggests pterostilbene may help maintain brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, supporting neuroplasticity and learning throughout life.
Dosage Recommendations
Due to its superior bioavailability, pterostilbene is effective at much lower doses than resveratrol. Most research uses doses in the 50-250mg range.
Dosing Guidelines
- General Health: 50-100mg daily
- Longevity Protocol: 100-250mg daily
- Combined with NR/NMN: 50-100mg for synergistic effect
- Best taken: With fat-containing foods for optimal absorption
Synergy with Other Compounds
Pterostilbene works synergistically with NAD+ precursors. SIRT1 requires NAD+ as a cofactor, so having adequate NAD+ levels maximizes the benefit of pterostilbene supplementation.
The Elysium Basis supplement combines pterostilbene with NR, taking advantage of this synergy. Many longevity enthusiasts combine pterostilbene with NMN and resveratrol for a comprehensive sirtuin-activation strategy.
Pterostilbene may also enhance the effects of other polyphenols like quercetin and fisetin, creating a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory combination.