Plant Sterols - A Method For Lowering LDL CholesterolPlant sterols, also known as stanols, are made only by plants and are very similar biochemically to human cholesterol. Stanols are only structurally different from cholesterol by a ethyl or methyl group. These groups are not produced in the human body, and hence make them only minimally absorbed in the intestines. Because of this inabsorption, specialists claim that stanols help reduce LDL cholesterol when manufactured into certain foods. 2 grams of plant sterols is a required amount for seeing results of lowered cholesterol. Fortified foods like orange juices, margarine have shown not to increase the triglyceride (HDL) cholesterol in the body. They do also not inhibit the absorption of vitamins that are fat soluble (vitamins K, E, D and A). Futher studies showed that adding plant sterols lowered the total cholesterol; nearly a 10% LDL cholesterol was recorded. Long-term studies showed now harmful side effects of eating plant sterol esters. It is conclusive that these products should be used for conditions of high cholesterol. Scientists at Washington University manufactured a pill containing plant sterols which may be a very safe and effective way of reducing cholesterol. |