Resveratrol and Pterostilbene Duo Combine to Improve Cognition and Mental Function

The potent phenolic compound resveratrol and its close cousin, pterostilbene have long been touted for their anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-lowering health benefits. Information published in the prestigious journal publications, Neurobiology of Aging and The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry both cite resveratrol and pterostilbene as powerful brain-boosting agents, enhancing cognitive and mental function while lowering the risk from many forms of dementia.

Pterostilbene, chemically similar to resveratrol, is a bioactive protective compound found commonly in many fresh fruits and vegetables. Numerous research studies show the two compounds acts to reduce inflammation throughout the body, a process behind seven of the ten most common disease processes that lead to death. Including this potent duo as part of your healthy diet, or from supplementation may help aid memory retention.

Resveratrol and Pterostilbene Stimulate Insulin Growth Factor to Impede Cognitive Decline

Resveratrol is a bioactive compound extracted most commonly from the skin of red grapes and found at differing concentrations in red wine. Researchers in Japan working with mice examined the effect of consuming red wine with a resveratrol concentration of 20 mg per liter, compared with a lower concentration of 3.1 mg per liter. A typical glass of red wine averages 4.7 mg per liter of resveratrol concentration.

The scientists found that the higher resveratrol concentration resulted in improved cognitive function using a variety of spatial and memory intensive tests. The benefits were linked to an increase in the production of a peptide called insulin-like growth-factor-I (IGF-I) that promotes the growth of blood vessels and neurons in the hippocampus region of the brain. Researchers commented “It is thus possible that drinking red wine with regular concentrations of resveratrol for long periods lowers the risk of age-associated cognitive decline.” Experts recommend an intake of 25 to 50 mg of resveratrol each day for optimal health effects.

Pterostilbene Lowers the Effect of Cellular Damage from Stress and Inflammation

In a separate research study conducted at Case Western Reserve University and Tufts University, two groups of mice were fed either identical doses of resveratrol or pterostilbene, about the equivalent of drinking two glasses of wine. While both compounds were found to boost levels of cognition, those receiving the pterostilbene demonstrated modulated markers of cellular stress and inflammation. This effect was not seen in the resveratrol supplemented mice.

The researchers concluded that because of the slight structural difference between the two compounds, “This change may lead to a better bioavailability of pterostilbene and consequently a more neuroprotective effect in the brain.” Pterostilbene is available naturally through a diet including blueberries, grapes, cranberries and olive oil or can be supplemented (50 mg per day) to meet nutritional goals. Both compounds provide a healthy synergistic effect that can help preserve memories and mental function as we age.

Pterostilbene Protects Against Colon and Digestive Cancers

Pterostilbene is garnering much attention as a powerful nutrient found naturally in the skin of many berries and fruit varieties. According to research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, the compound is more potent than its close cousin, resveratrol in preventing the development of colon cancer.

Researchers found that pterostilbene was highly effective at increasing the expression of genes responsible for the generation of powerful protective antioxidant enzymes. The nutrient can be obtained by eating a diet largely based on raw vegetables and fruits or can be supplemented to dramatically reduce the risk of digestive cancers.

Pterostilbene is a Potent Natural Antioxidant That Aids Digestive Health

Pterostilbene has been found to be a potent antioxidant agent that targets the digestive tract and in this study was associated with decreased inflammation as well as modulation of the antioxidant signaling pathways in the colon. Researchers from the National Kaohsiung Marine University in Taiwan compared the effect of pterostilbene and resveratrol and commented their “findings strongly suggested the chemopreventive potential of dietary administration of pterostilbene against colonic tumorigenesis.” 

Extensive scientific studies have highlighted the health-promoting effects of resveratrol and suggested a strong link to life extension through its anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects. Resveratrol exerts powerful cardiovascular benefits, anti-diabetes potential, energy endurance enhancement, and protection against Alzheimer’s disease. Both nutrients have evolved to protect plants from the damaging effects of their environment and are now rapidly emerging as protective agents for the human body.

Pterostilbene Protects Against Colon and Digestive Cancers

Pterostilbene has many properties in common with resveratrol and this research provides evidence that it specifically works to prevent digestive system cancers, the second leading cause of cancer deaths that takes the lives of more than 50,000 Americans each year. Researchers noted both resveratrol and pterostilbene block cellular inflammation and oxidative stress, though “pterostilbene was a more potent chemopreventive agent than resveratrol for the prevention of colon cancer.” Pterostilbene was shown to specifically inhibit the initiation and proliferation of colon cancer cells in a dose dependent manner when compared with resveratrol.

Pterostilbene and resveratrol are naturally found in grapes, most berry species and red wine. Scientific research is showing that the closely-related nutrients work synergistically to aid human health, prevent digestive tumor formation and extend lifespan. Nutrition experts recommend 25 to 50 mg of each nutrient daily. Most health conscious people will need to take a quality supplement to achieve these levels for optimal protection against chronic disease.