Beta Sitosterol is a naturally occurring phytochemical in plant oils. It is almost similar to the structure of cholesterol only with additional ethyl group, and with plants as its source. Plant sources of Beta Sitosterol include saw palmetto, soybeans, pumpkin seeds, flax seed, sunflower seeds, peanuts, olive oil and other fruits and vegetables. This phytosterol is also available as supplements, in capsule or pill forms. Different clinical studies suggest that Beta Sitosterol benefits human health in many ways.
When taken, 5% of the total dosage of Beta Sitosterol supplements is absorbed in the digestive tract. This amount goes directly to the liver and transported through the portal circulation. Some of it is glucorinated in the liver while some are metabolised to cholic acid. The other 95% of Beta Sitosterol supplements are transported to different tissues of the body via the systemic circulation, to deliver all its preventive and curative benefits.
Beta Sitosterol Benefits
- The strongest purported Beta Sitosterol benefit is its ability to relieve the symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in men. It has shown to reduce prostatic inflammation for improved urine flow and relieve urinary retention. Beta sitosterol supplements are recommended for older men who are at risk of developing BPH and for those who are already diagnosed with this prostate condition.
- This phytosterol helps lower cholesterol. It works by interfering with the absorption of cholesterol in the digestive tract. High cholesterol level in the body is a major contributing factor in the onset of cardiovascular conditions like coronary heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
- Beta Sitosterol offers superior antioxidant protection, and thus delivers anti-ageing benefits. Antioxidants normally protect the DNA of the cells from free radical damage, a process that prevents the onset of ageing and helps rejuvenate the body.
- Beta Sitosterol strengthens immune functions. Taking beto sitosterol supplements is helpful in alleviating weakening effects of stress to the immune system. This phytochemical helps reduce inflammation and balance the production of cortisol to enable the immune system to strongly fight infectious microorganisms.
- Beta Sitosterol appears to exhibit blood sugar balancing effects in Type 2 diabetes. It stimulates the release of the hormone insulin to optimise conversion of blood sugar into usable energy in the cells.
- Beta Sitosterol benefits women by relieving uterine cramping and restoring uterine tone.
- Other reported health benefits of this plant chemical are its abilities to relieve inflammation, fight bacteria and viruses, and heal ulcers.
Beta Sitosterol Side Effects
Reported mild side effects of Beta Sitosterol include nausea, constipation, indigestion, and low libido. These side effects may be bothersome, but the benefits of this nutrient usually outweigh these potential discomforts.
