Beta-sitosterol is one of the phytosterols or plant sterols that closely resemble cholesterol. Sitosterols come in powder form with a waxy appearance that is white in color and have a distinct characteristic odor.
It is believed to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood and is sometimes used to treat hypercholesterolemia or high blood cholesterol. Hypercholesterolemia is not considered a disease but a metabolic abnormality that can cause cardiovascular problems.
Beta-sitosterol prevents cholesterol absorption in the intestines thus significantly reducing the amount of LDL or "bad cholesterol" in the body. Once absorbed in the intestines, the sterol is transported by lipoproteins to be incorporated into the cell membrane. Since beta-sitosterol is very similar to cholesterol, it often takes the place of biliary and dietary cholesterol in micelles or certain organic particles in the intestinal cavity causing less absorption of cholesterol in the body.
In Europe, the sterol is widely used for the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy or enlargement of the prostate. It is also used to treat prostatic carcinoma and breast cancer although this claim is still being further evaluated in the US.
Clinical evidence show that the use of beta-sitosterol in animals, alone or in combination with estradiol caused a noticeable increase in their uterine weight, RNA, DNA and protein concentrations in the uterus.
A laboratory experiment demonstrated the antifertility property of this amino acid when a high dosage of this substance was given to albino rats. When a low dosage of this substance was given to the animals, there was a marked decrease in their testicular weight and sperm concentration. This characterictic of beta-testosterol may enhance reproductive system health and can be used to promote fertility.
Beta-sitosterol is also believed to have the ability to release insulin and at the same time decrease blood glucose level when administered orally. Previous clinical studies show that this substance manifest some side effects though not life-threatening. Ingesting amounts of this sterol beyond its recommended dose might cause diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, constipation and erectile dysfunction.
It is not recommended for pregnant women and breast feeding mothers because it might pose danger to the baby. Beta-sitosterol can be found in abundance in pecans, saw palmetto, avocados, pumpkin seeds, cashew fruit, rice bran, wheat germ, corn oils, soybeans, sea buckthorn and wolfberries. You should eat more of these beta-sitosterol rich foods if you want to lower or maintain your cholesterol level.
One minor study shows that the saw palmetto plant rich in beta-sitosterol may be able to treat hair loss in men.
Source by Arianna Mendez
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