Plant sterols are compounds naturally found in the membranes of plant cells. They are the plant versions of
cholesterol (which occurs only in animals). These compounds can help
lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of
heart disease. Although many plant-based foods contain small amounts of plant sterols, there is much interest in using plant sterols as a
dietary supplement, especially in the form of functional foods (such as margarines or spreads).
There are many other health benefits that they may provide, some which are more valid than others.
How Do Plant Sterols Work?
It is thought that they reduce the risk of
heart disease mostly by
lowering cholesterol. Because they are not absorbed well from the
digestive system to the rest of the body, they work mostly within the digestive system. They work primarily by blocking the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine.
There is good evidence that they can lower
cholesterol levels and may reduce the risk of heart disease. There is not enough evidence to tell if they are effective for other uses as well
(see Do Plant Sterols Work? for more information).
Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Heart Association (AHA) provide basic dosing guidelines for plant sterols. However, since the sterol content of products varies, the recommended dose will depend on which product you choose.
Side Effects of Plant Sterols
Plant sterols usually do not cause many side effects, especially when consumed at normal levels. Side effects, when they do occur, may include:
(Click Plant Sterol Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Plant sterols are probably safe for most people when taken in normal amounts (such as amounts found in food), although higher doses could potentially cause problems. Some people may be more likely to experience problems. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking plant sterols if you have:
- Sitosterolemia (phytosterolaemia), a rare genetic condition
- A vitamin deficiency due to malabsorption digestive problems
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take a Plant Sterol Overdose?
It is not known exactly what to expect from an overdose, or even if an overdose is possible. It is reasonable to assume that taking excessive plant sterols may cause the usual side effects of plant sterols, but they may perhaps be more severe.
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