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Making the most of cholesterol-lowering margarines.
1Preventive Cardiology and Rehabilitation Program, Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195, USA. averyj@ccf.org
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine
|March 27, 2001
Summary
Margarines with plant sterols modestly lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol when replacing saturated fats. These cholesterol-lowering spreads are effective for mild hypercholesterolemia and beneficial for the general population.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- Saturated fatty acids can negatively impact cholesterol levels.
- Plant sterols are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of plant sterol-containing margarines in reducing serum cholesterol.
- To determine the applicability of these margarines for both hypercholesterolemic patients and the general population.
Main Methods:
- Participants consumed margarines enriched with plant sterols as a dietary substitute.
- Serum levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were monitored.
Main Results:
- A modest reduction in serum total cholesterol was observed.
- A modest reduction in serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was observed.
- Plant sterol margarines demonstrated effectiveness in individuals with mild hypercholesterolemia.
Conclusions:
- Plant sterol-containing margarines offer a viable dietary strategy for cholesterol management.
- These margarines are beneficial for individuals with mild hypercholesterolemia and the general population seeking to manage cholesterol intake.