Phytosterols
Phytosterols
Phytosterols (pronounced: fy-toh-ster-uhls), also known as plant sterols, are a group of sterols naturally occurring in plants. They are similar in structure to cholesterol, which is a type of sterol found in animal cells. The term "phytosterols" comes from the Greek words "phyto" meaning plant and "sterols" meaning solid, referring to their waxy, solid nature.
Etymology
The term "phytosterols" is derived from the Greek words "phyto" (plant) and "sterol" (solid). The suffix "-ol" is used in organic chemistry to denote substances that contain a hydroxyl (-OH) group.
Types of Phytosterols
There are over 200 different types of phytosterols, but the most common ones include beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol. These compounds are found in a variety of plant-based foods, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
Health Benefits
Phytosterols have been studied for their potential health benefits, particularly in relation to heart health. They have been shown to help lower LDL cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits and risks of phytosterols.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phytosterols
- Wikipedia's article - Phytosterols
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