Research Study
The Effects of Pterostilbene on Cholesterol
Pterostilbene is a natural analog of resveratrol found in blueberries. Structurally, pterostilbene contains two methoxy groups and one hydroxyl group while resveratrol has three hydroxyl groups. The two methoxy groups cause pterostilbene to be more lipophilic than resveratrol, giving it a higher potential for cellular uptake and superior bioavailability. Published reports have shown that pterostilbene functions as a PPARα activator, which decreases the body’s synthesis of triglycerides and VLDL and helps to regulate cholesterol levels. The first human clinical study on pterostilbene and cholesterol is currently underway(see http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01267227).
