What Are the Benefits of Phytosterols?
Phytosterols are plant fat. They are the naturally occurring compounds within plants that act as a catalyst for certain plant cell functions. The equivalent to the phytosterols found in plants is the cholesterol found in the human body. Ingesting phytosterols, in foods and in supplement form, may help you control your cholesterol levels. Phytosterols may also aid in joint health and in boosting your immune system.
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Function
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Certain cells in your body process cholesterol; they metabolize both good and bad cholesterol, either for use or for waste. If you have an excess of bad cholesterol (LDL) the bad cholesterol "dominates" the process. More bad cholesterol stays in the system and the good cholesterol (HDL) goes to waste. The ingestion of phytosterols sets up a competitive environment. The cells are more attracted to phytosterols and so the excess bad cholesterol is processed as waste. The good cholesterol can now be used for cell and organ functions.
Effects
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The phytosterols, then, act as a control in your body to regulate cholesterol levels. Were you to take a supplement containing phytosterols, your cholesterol levels may fall back into the normal range, but it would likely take several weeks to do so. This plant compound is non-soluble, that is, the body uses it then disposes of it. It's not until the cholesterol processing cells have "routinely" recognized the plant compound as cholesterol that cholesterol levels are regulated.
Benefits
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Cholesterol control isn't the only health benefit being attributed to phytosterols. Beta sitosterol, a specific phytosterol compound, has been shown to reduce symptoms brought on by an enlarged prostate. This same compound is thought to reduce joint inflammation by regulating the synthesis of cytokines. There are also studies that indicate phytosterols may inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Considerations
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In the book, "Phytosterols as Functional Food Components and Nutraceuticals" by Paresh C. Dutta, the author discusses the various studies being done in regard to phytosterols and cancer. He explains that the studies have mostly been done on groups with compromised immune systems and while there does appear to be a link between cancer cell death and phytosterols, it's questionable whether phytosterols could be considered a preventative or a cure.
Sources
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Phytosterols are found in most plants in low concentrations. The foods with higher concentrations include nuts and legumes, oranges, bananas, beetroot and brussel sprouts. Those with exceptionally higher concentrates include rice bran, corn, wheat germ and flax seed. If your cholesterol levels are within the normal range, and you're in good health, regular intake of these foods should be a sufficient amount of phytosterols to aid in maintaining good health. Should you have high cholesterol or an enlarged prostate, or suffer from joint inflammation, you may wish to consult your physician about taking a phytosterol supplement.
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