Plant Sterols
| See Also | Food Supplements |
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Plant sterols are found in diets rich in vegetables. These compounds are structurally similar to cholesterol, with the exception of the one or 2 more carbons in the side chain of the molecule. Although a variety of plant sterols have been identified, beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol are the most common and average 20% of sterols in our diets.[1] Plant sterols are best known for their ability to lower cholesterol.
Food Sources
The foods with the highest source of plant sterols include:
- Whole grains such as rice bran, wheat germ, oat bran, bran, whole wheat and brown rice
- Legumes such as dried peas, dried beans and lentils
- Nuts and seeds including peanuts, almonds, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds
- Vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, dill, tomatoes
- Fruits including apples, avocados and blueberries
Uses
Plant sterols are primarily used for:
- Colorectal Cancer prevention
- Studies have shown a decrease in colonic tumor formation when the plant sterol, beta-sitosterol was added to the diet. Beta-sitosterol may prevent adenoma formation, however may not affect the transition from adenoma to invasive carcinoma.[1]
Prescribing Considerations
The recommended dosages have not yet been established. To determine what your specific requirements are talk to your naturopathic doctor or other trained medical professional.
- Adults: recommended daily dosage is 2 grams a day.
Safety
Plant Sterols are generally considered safe.
- High doses of plant sterols from supplementation may cause nausea or constipation.
