Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Phytosterols are plant-derived sterols structurally similar to cholesterol. There is moderate scientific evidence supporting their use to lower LDL cholesterol, but the evidence for their effect on triglycerides is less robust. Multiple clinical trials and meta-analyses have shown that phytosterol supplementation (usually 1.5-3 grams per day) consistently reduces LDL cholesterol by 8-15% in both healthy and hypercholesterolemic individuals. However, the effect on triglyceride levels is less clear. Some studies suggest a small reduction in triglycerides, particularly in people with elevated baseline triglyceride levels, but findings are inconsistent and the reduction is generally modest (often less than 10%). Major guidelines (such as those from the American Heart Association and European Society of Cardiology) recommend phytosterols primarily for LDL cholesterol lowering, with only limited mention of triglyceride effects. Mechanistically, phytosterols lower cholesterol absorption in the gut, but this does not strongly influence triglyceride metabolism. In summary, while phytosterols are scientifically validated for cholesterol lowering, evidence for their use in treating high triglycerides is limited and not as well established.

More about Phytoestrol (unspecified)
More about Triglycerides (high)

Other ingredients used for Triglycerides (high)

Other health conditions supported by Phytoestrol (unspecified)

Products containing Phytoestrol (unspecified)