Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Phytosterols are plant-derived sterols structurally similar to cholesterol, best known for their established ability to lower LDL cholesterol levels by inhibiting intestinal absorption of dietary cholesterol. Their use for high triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia), however, is less well-established. Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have primarily focused on the cholesterol-lowering effects of phytosterols, with only a minority examining impacts on triglyceride levels. Some studies suggest a modest reduction in triglycerides—generally in the range of 5-15%—particularly in individuals with elevated baseline triglycerides or in those with metabolic syndrome. For example, a meta-analysis published in Atherosclerosis (2011) found a small but statistically significant reduction in triglyceride levels with phytosterol supplementation, especially in participants with higher starting triglyceride concentrations. However, the overall effect size is modest, and results across studies are inconsistent. Major guidelines (such as those from the American Heart Association) do not strongly recommend phytosterols specifically for triglyceride reduction, instead emphasizing their benefit for LDL cholesterol. Thus, while there is some scientific evidence supporting a minor triglyceride-lowering effect of phytosterols, the evidence is not robust, and phytosterols are not a primary therapy for high triglycerides.

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