Phytosterols

=Other Names= Vegetable sterols, sitosterol, beta-sitosterol, stanols

=Generalities= Phytosterols are to the vegetable kingdom what cholesterol is to the animal kingdom

=Properties= -Phytosterols bind to the receptor sites of cholesterol on the cells of the intestinal wall as their chemical structures are similar

=Indications= -Reduces the level of LDL ("bad cholesterol") -Treats benign prostate hypertrophy (beta-sitosterol only) -Stimulates the immune system

=Contraindications= In the case of sitosterolemia and certain xanthomatoses, or rare genetic defects

=Precautions and Side Effects= Taking supplements can inhibit the absorption of beta-carotene and can therefore be detrimental to those w/ a Vitamin A deficiency. Children and pregnant/breastfeeding women are more at risk.

=Sources= -Vegetable oils -Margarines -Nuts -Seeds

=Therapeutic Dose= 2-2.5g./day