What Foods Have Sterols in Them to Lower Cholesterol?
Plant sterols, also known as phytosterols, are compounds found naturally in the cells of plants, reports the Cleveland Clinic. The three most common plant sterols are beta sitosterol, campestrol and stigmasterol. Because these compounds are similar to the cholesterol found in the human body, they negate cholesterol when eaten and are absorbed in its place. This mechanism serves to lower the overall cholesterol levels in the body. However, the human diet frequently fails to include enough sterols to lower cholesterol and, in fact, averages less than 500 mg per day. Although you should discuss your cholesterol levels with your doctor, seeking out dietary sterols may be beneficial.
