Blueberry Compound Identified to Help Muscle Cells Burn Excess Fat

Scientists in Japan, led by Associate Professor Takakazu Mitani of Shinshu University, have identified pterostilbene, a natural compound found in blueberries, grapes, and other berries, that may help muscle cells burn excess fat instead of storing it. The compound reduced abnormal fat buildup in cultured mouse muscle cells by boosting fat breakdown and stabilizing a key protein involved in fatty acid metabolism. The findings were published in the Food Bioscience journal on September 1, 2026, with ScienceDaily reporting on September 5, 2026.