Beta-sitosterol
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Form: Extract
Food source: Soybeans
Benefits of Beta-sitosterol
- Reduce cholesterol levels in the blood*
What is Beta-sitosterol?
Beta-sitosterol is a type of bio-active phytosterol that can naturally be found in plant cell membranes. Among the various plant sterols that exist, Beta-sitosterol is the main compound that is found in abundant amounts in plants.
With a similar chemical structure to that of cholesterol, Beta-sitosterol plays a role in helping manage cholesterol levels in the body, by preventing dietary cholesterol from being absorbed, thereby supporting cardiovascular health. Evidence shows plant sterols lower LDL cholesterol in the body by interacting with the enzymes involved in the metabolism of cholesterol. The result is a reduction in cholesterol, which can be beneficial particularly in those who suffer from high cholesterol levels, also referred to as ‘hypercholesterolemia’ or ‘familial hypercholesterolemia’.
The beneficial effect is thought to be obtained with a daily intake of around 0.8g of plant sterols or stanols. It is important to note that the total dietary intake (from foods and supplements) of phytosterols should not exceed 3g per day.
Clinical studies have looked into the role beta-sitosterols play in urinary health, helping relieve urinary flow problems which can be caused by an enlarged prostate gland. Also referred to as 'Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia' (BPH), an enlarged prostate gland is a common condition affecting men over the age of 40.
*High cholesterol is a common health concern as it is a risk factor in the development of coronary heart disease.The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 1.5-2.4 g of plant sterols.The development of coronary health disease has multiple risk factors and altering one of these may or may not have a beneficial effect.
