Phytosterols
Phytosterols modestly lower LDL cholesterol when consumed at 2 g/day. FDA has authorized a health claim.
What it is
Plant sterols and stanols (e.g., β-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol) structurally similar to cholesterol; obtained from vegetable oils or wood pulp.
Cholesterol-lowering functional ingredient; added to spreads, yogurts, and beverages.
Why it's flagged
- may lower carotenoid absorption
- intake should not exceed 3 g/day
- not for children/pregnancy
What regulators actually say
"Foods containing at least 0.65 g per serving of plant sterol esters... eaten twice a day with meals for a daily total intake of at least 1.3 g, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease."
"Plant sterols and plant stanol esters have been shown to lower/reduce blood cholesterol. Blood cholesterol lowering may reduce the risk of (coronary) heart disease."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Authorized health claim for plant sterol/stanol esters (21 CFR 101.83).
European Union — EFSA
Authorized health claim for blood cholesterol reduction; novel food approval (Decision 2000/500/EC and successors).
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