Beta-sitosterol
Benefits of Beta-sitosterol
- Blood cholesterol*
- Form: Extract
- Food source: Plant oils, nuts, seeds, avocados, legumes and wholegrains.
What is Beta-sitosterol?
Beta-sitosterol is a type of bioactive phytosterol (plant sterol) found naturally in plant cell membranes. Among the various plant sterols that exist, Beta-sitosterol is the main one, found in abundant amounts in plants. It has a similar chemical structure to cholesterol.
What does Beta-sitosterol do?
In the gut, plant sterols compete with cholesterol from food, so less of it is absorbed. Plant sterols contribute to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels.* A meta-analysis of randomised controlled studies has looked at the effect of plant sterols and stanols on LDL cholesterol across different doses.
It is important to note that the total dietary intake of phytosterols (from foods and supplements) should not exceed 3g per day.
Clinical studies have also looked at beta-sitosterol in relation to men's urinary health, including its effects on urinary flow.
*The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of at least 0.8g of plant sterols/stanols.
Black Garlic
Black Garlic is garlic that has been aged in a certain way, and this ageing process has been widely studied for its benefits for cardiovascular health and blood cholesterol.
Chromium
Chromium is a trace mineral that is used by the body for the metabolism of carbohydrates. A healthy balance of Chromium helps the body control the levels of fat and cholesterol in the blood.
CoQ-10
Found in almost every cell of the body, Co-Enzyme Q10 (CoQ-10) is a fat-soluble, enzyme that helps convert food into energy and is required in large amounts in the heart muscle.
Folate
Folate is required in the synthesis of DNA and the replication of new cells. It is needed in during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects in the foetus.
Ginger Root
Ginger roots are edible and used widely both as a spice in cooking and as a natural remedy. Ginger's active compounds are antioxidants and support healthy digestion and blood glucose.
Inositol
Inositol is a type of sugar produced by our kidneys and used throughout our body, in particular in our brain and in cell membranes, and it influences the effectiveness of insulin.
Lycopene
Lycopene is a compound responsible for the bright red colour it gives to tomatoes, grapefruits and watermelons, among other fruits and vegetables. It is characterised by its high 'antioxidant' content which is the highest among carotenoid pigments.
Monacolin K - Red Yeast Extract
Red yeast rice and its active ingredient Monacolin-K has been used in traditional cultures for thousands of years to reduce cholesterol levels and stress on the heart.
