Beta-Sitosterol
What does it do? Beta-sitosterol—alone and in combination with similar plant sterols—reduces blood levels of cholesterol.
1 2 This appears to be because beta-sitosterol blocks absorption of cholesterol.3 It has also been effective at reducing symptoms of prostatic hyperplasia.4 It is unknown how beta-sitosterol achieves this effect in the prostate.Where is it found? Beta-sitosterol is one of several plant sterols (cholesterol is the main animal sterol) found in almost all plants. Beta-sitosterol is particularly prevalent in soybeans.
In what conditions might beta-sitosterol be supportive?
• benign prostatic hyperplasia
Who is likely to be deficient? Because beta-sitosterol is not an essential bodily constituent, deficiencies do not occur.
How much should I take? Approximately 500 mg of beta-sitosterol has been used each day for reduction of elevated blood cholesterol. Only 20 mg three times per day is necessary for reduction of prostatic hyperplasia–related symptoms.
Are there any side effects or interactions? No significant side effects or interactions have yet been reported in studies on beta-sitosterol.
References:
1. Lees AM, Mok HYI, Lee RS, et al. Plant sterols as cholesterol-lowering agents:
Clinical trials in patients with hypercholesterolemia and studies of sterol balance. Atheroscler
1977;28:325–38.
2. Pelletier X, Belbraouet S, Mirabel D, et al. A diet moderately enriched in phytosterols
lowers plasma cholesterol concentrations in normocholesterolemic humans. Ann Nutr Metab
1995;39:291–95.
3. Grundy SM, Ahrens EH Jr, Davignon J. The interaction of cholesterol absorption and
cholesterol synthesis in man. J Lipid Res 1969;10:304–15 (review).
4. Berges RR, Windeler J, Trampisch HJ, et al. Randomised, placebo-controlled,
double-blind clinical trial of beta-sitosterol in patients with benign prostatic
hyperplasia. Lancet 1995;345:1529–32.
Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.