RESEARCH
Extensive clinical research shows that esterified plant sterols safely and effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels and may reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, regardless of statin use. Esterified sterols have “generally recognized as safe” status in the US.
Statement from the Cleveland Clinic
"Phytosterols are natural compounds found in plants that can help you safely lower your cholesterol levels to avoid health risks such as heart attack and stroke. They may also help prevent obesity, diabetes and cancer. To meet dietary goals and keep high cholesterol in check, eat foods with added plant sterols or use supplements." Learn More.
Studies
- Plant sterols plus statin lower cholesterol further than statin alone (meta analysis): Effects of plant stanol or sterol-enriched diets on lipid profiles in patients treated with statins: systematic review and meta-analysis
- Plant sterols decrease LDL by 10%, randomized placebo controlled trial: Efficacy of yogurt drink with added plant stanol esters (Benecol®, Colanta) in reducing total and LDL cholesterol in subjects with moderate hypercholesterolemia: a randomized placebo-controlled crossover trial NCT01461798
- British Journal of Nutrition: LDL-cholesterol-lowering effect of plant sterols and stanols across different dose ranges: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled studies
- Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: A Softgel Dietary Supplement Containing Esterified Plant Sterols and Stanols Improves the Blood Lipid Profile of Adults with Primary Hypercholesterolemia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Replication Study
- European Food Safety Authority: Blood cholesterol reduction health claims on phytosterols can now be judged against EFSA new scientific advice
- International Journal for Research and Investigation on Atherosclerosis and Related Diseases: Plant sterols and plant stanols in the management of dyslipidaemia and prevention of cardiovascular disease
- European Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Anticancer effects of phytosterols