Stigmastanol: Difference between revisions
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{{DISPLAYTITLE:Stigmastanol}} | |||
== | == Overview == | ||
Stigmastanol | '''Stigmastanol''' is a [[phytosterol]], a type of plant sterol that is structurally similar to [[cholesterol]]. It is a saturated derivative of [[stigmasterol]], which is found in various plant sources. Stigmastanol is known for its potential health benefits, particularly in lowering [[cholesterol]] levels in humans. | ||
== | == Chemical Structure == | ||
[[File:Stigmastanol.svg|thumb|right|Chemical structure of stigmastanol]] | |||
Stigmastanol has a chemical structure similar to that of cholesterol, with a steroid nucleus and a side chain. The saturation of the side chain distinguishes it from stigmasterol, making it more stable and less prone to oxidation. | |||
== | == Sources == | ||
Stigmastanol is | Stigmastanol is found in a variety of plant-based foods, including [[vegetable oils]], [[nuts]], and [[seeds]]. It is also present in some [[cereal]] grains and [[legumes]]. The compound is often extracted and used in [[functional foods]] and [[dietary supplements]] for its cholesterol-lowering properties. | ||
== | == Health Benefits == | ||
Stigmastanol competes with | Stigmastanol is primarily recognized for its ability to lower [[LDL cholesterol]] levels. It competes with cholesterol for absorption in the [[intestine]], thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol that enters the bloodstream. This mechanism can help in the management of [[hypercholesterolemia]] and reduce the risk of [[cardiovascular disease]]. | ||
== | == Mechanism of Action == | ||
The primary mechanism by which stigmastanol exerts its effects is through the inhibition of cholesterol absorption in the [[small intestine]]. By competing with dietary and biliary cholesterol for incorporation into [[micelles]], stigmastanol reduces the overall absorption of cholesterol. This leads to a decrease in serum cholesterol levels. | |||
== | == Applications == | ||
Stigmastanol is | Stigmastanol is used in the formulation of [[functional foods]] such as [[margarines]], [[yogurts]], and [[milk]] products that are marketed for their cholesterol-lowering effects. It is also available in [[dietary supplements]] aimed at improving cardiovascular health. | ||
==Safety and Side Effects== | == Safety and Side Effects == | ||
Stigmastanol is generally considered safe for consumption. However, excessive intake may lead to | Stigmastanol is generally considered safe for consumption. However, excessive intake may lead to a reduction in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as [[vitamin A]], [[vitamin D]], [[vitamin E]], and [[vitamin K]]. It is important to consume stigmastanol as part of a balanced diet. | ||
==Related Pages== | == Related Pages == | ||
* [[Phytosterol]] | * [[Phytosterol]] | ||
* [[Cholesterol]] | |||
* [[Stigmasterol]] | * [[Stigmasterol]] | ||
* [[Cardiovascular disease]] | |||
* [[Cardiovascular | |||
[[Category:Phytosterols]] | [[Category:Phytosterols]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Nutrition]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Cholesterol]] | ||
Latest revision as of 10:48, 15 February 2025
Overview[edit]
Stigmastanol is a phytosterol, a type of plant sterol that is structurally similar to cholesterol. It is a saturated derivative of stigmasterol, which is found in various plant sources. Stigmastanol is known for its potential health benefits, particularly in lowering cholesterol levels in humans.
Chemical Structure[edit]
Stigmastanol has a chemical structure similar to that of cholesterol, with a steroid nucleus and a side chain. The saturation of the side chain distinguishes it from stigmasterol, making it more stable and less prone to oxidation.
Sources[edit]
Stigmastanol is found in a variety of plant-based foods, including vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. It is also present in some cereal grains and legumes. The compound is often extracted and used in functional foods and dietary supplements for its cholesterol-lowering properties.
Health Benefits[edit]
Stigmastanol is primarily recognized for its ability to lower LDL cholesterol levels. It competes with cholesterol for absorption in the intestine, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol that enters the bloodstream. This mechanism can help in the management of hypercholesterolemia and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Mechanism of Action[edit]
The primary mechanism by which stigmastanol exerts its effects is through the inhibition of cholesterol absorption in the small intestine. By competing with dietary and biliary cholesterol for incorporation into micelles, stigmastanol reduces the overall absorption of cholesterol. This leads to a decrease in serum cholesterol levels.
Applications[edit]
Stigmastanol is used in the formulation of functional foods such as margarines, yogurts, and milk products that are marketed for their cholesterol-lowering effects. It is also available in dietary supplements aimed at improving cardiovascular health.
Safety and Side Effects[edit]
Stigmastanol is generally considered safe for consumption. However, excessive intake may lead to a reduction in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K. It is important to consume stigmastanol as part of a balanced diet.
