Phytosterol

Phytosterols (also called plant sterols) are a group of steroid compounds similar to cholesterol which occur in plants and vary only in carbon side chains and/or presence or absence of a double bond. They are an integral part of plant cell membranes, maintaining structural integrity just like cholesterol in animal cell membranes.

Structure and Classification

Phytosterols are classified into four major classes: sterol, stanol, stanol ester, and fatty acid ester of sterol. The structure of phytosterols is very similar to that of cholesterol, with the exception of the addition of an extra methyl or ethyl group at the C24 position on the side chain.

Sources

Phytosterols are found in the plant kingdom in small quantities. The richest naturally occurring sources of phytosterols are vegetable oils and products made from them. They can also be found in an array of nuts, seeds, legumes, and in smaller amounts in fruits and vegetables.

Health Benefits

Phytosterols have been shown to help lower LDL cholesterol levels. They work by reducing the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines by up to 50%. This can lead to a decrease in total cholesterol levels in the body.

Side Effects

While phytosterols have been shown to have health benefits, they can also have side effects. These can include diarrhea, nausea, and indigestion. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

See Also

• Steroid
• Cholesterol
• LDL cholesterol

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