What are the Side Effects of Phytosterol?

Phytosterols are a natural compound found in plants. They serve as a natural alternative to many of the drugs prescribed for lowering high cholesterol. While the human body requires certain levels of cholesterol for metabolic function, too much of a good thing causes serious health issues, including heart attack, strokes and/or death. Phytosterols inhibit the synthesis of cholesterol. They help reduce the production and absorption of bad cholesterol, but they are not completely without side effects.

Function

Phytosterols are very safe alternatives to many of the prescription drugs on the market for reducing high cholesterol levels in human beings. As a plant derivative, it provides an all-natural alternative to chemical options.

Features

Phytosterols essentially create an internal environment in the human body that while still processing cholesterol, effectively eliminates most or all of the excess through natural means. It helps the body do what it was intended to do.

Types

The most common forms of phytosterols are sitosterol, stigmasterol, campesterol and brassicasterol. These forms are created from plant sterols and plant stenols. Stenols are simply hydrogenated forms of sterols.

Minor Side Effects

There are no minor common side effects that have been determined from using phytosterols. The packagers of phytosterols have to list major side effects, but unlike their chemical counterparts in the pharmaceutical world, there are no minor ones.

Major Side Effects

While there are major side effects listed on phytosterols that are purchased in health stores, they are extremely rare. These side effects include severe allergic reactions, i.e. rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, and swelling of mouth, face, lips or tongue. In addition, other listed side effects include body swelling and numbness or tingling of skin.

Prevention/Solution

Almost all of the side effects listed as "major" are relieved simply by taking an over-the-counter medication like Benadryl. However, it is recommended by health practitioners that medical attention is sought immediately when experiencing any of these symptoms.

Resources

• PubMed.gov