Foods Containing Beta Sitosterol

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By Shelley Moore
eHow Contributing Writer

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Beta sitosterol has two confirmed health benefits: reducing cholesterol levels and improving prostate problems. It appears to block absorption of cholesterol and significantly improves urological symptoms in men, as noted by a review of studies in Lancet in 1995. The foods listed here all contain at least 20 milligrams of beta sitosterol per 200 calories.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oils are the best food source of beta sitosterol. Canola, corn and soybean oil, vegetable shortening, margarine made from corn or soybean oil, and tofu or soybean mayonnaise all contain high amounts of beta sitosterol.

Fruits and Vegetables

Avocados, grape leaves and fava beans also contain significant amounts of beta sitosterol.

Nuts

Pistachio nuts, almonds, hazel nuts, filberts, walnuts, macadamia nuts and pecans also are excellent sources of beta sitosterol.

Corn Chips

You don't often hear corn chips recommended for health reasons, but because of the corn oil, tortilla chips and other corn snacks are included on this list.

Unsweetened Chocolate

Another pleasing source of beta sitosterol is unsweetened baking chocolate. Now you can bake up your own tasty beta sitosterol brownies using this type of chocolate, along with margarine and chopped walnuts.