Beta-Sitosterol
What is Beta-Sitosterol?
Beta-Sitosterol is a plant sterol found naturally in many plant-based foods and some animal products. It is an essential nutrient that plays a role in a healthy diet and may provide several health benefits. Beta-Sitosterol is a type of phytosterol, which is a plant compound that is similar to dietary cholesterol. Despite being structurally similar to cholesterol, Beta-Sitosterol does not actually raise cholesterol levels, but instead it competes with dietary cholesterol for absorption in the body.
Where is Beta-Sitosterol generally used?
Beta-Sitosterol is used commonly in dietary supplements. It is approved by the FDA for use as a cholesterol-lowering drug in the United States. It is also used in some skincare products due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Where is Beta-Sitosterol found?
Beta-Sitosterol is found in many plant-based foods such as nuts, seeds, vegetables, and fruits. It is also found in some animal products such as eggs, poultry, and fish.
What are the health benefits of Beta-Sitosterol?
- Beta-Sitosterol may reduce cholesterol levels in the body.
- It may help prevent the buildup of fatty plaques in the arteries.
- It may help reduce symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).
- It may help reduce inflammation and fight oxidative damage.
- It may reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
Interesting Facts about Beta-Sitosterol
- Beta-Sitosterol is the most abundant phytosterol found in plants.
- It is structurally similar to dietary cholesterol, but does not act like cholesterol in the body.
- It has been shown to reduce cholesterol absorption from food.
- It is approved by the FDA for the treatment of high cholesterol.
- It can also be found in some skincare products.
List of other similar ingredients
- Campesterol
- Stigmasterol
- Brassicasterol
- Spinasterol
- Avenasterol
- Delta-5-avenasterol
- Cycloartenol