Formally known as phytosterols, plant sterols are a phyto-chemical found in a variety of plants, as well as fruits, grains, nuts and oil derivatives from plants. Scientists have recognized the role of sterols in helping to lower cholesterol rates, and, as a result have supplemented many common foods with sterols to improve their health benefits. Common sources of sterols include a variety of nuts, such as almonds and peanuts, as well as products with sterol supplements, including Promise brand Activ products.
Sterols help to lower your body’s cholesterol level by blocking the digestion of cholesterol in your intestinal tract. While dietary sources are the most common source of cholesterol, the body also stores and releases some cholesterol; both sources can be mitigated through the digestion of sterols. Interestingly, sterols have similar characteristics to cholesterol, so they substitute for the by-products (without the harmful effects.) As a result, the body absorbs less cholesterol, which can lower the body’s overall rate of cholesterol in the blood stream by preventing absorption.
Numerous studies from the Cholesterol Education Program , the ADA (American Diebetic Association) and the USDA have shown that regular consumption of plant sterols can help to lower the body’s LDL (”bad”) cholesterol levels.
