Phytosterols: physiologic and metabolic aspects related to cholesterol-lowering properties

The aim of this review is to give a general contemporary overview of the physiologic effects of phytosterols and their role in cholesterol uptake in the intestinal tract. The mechanism of phytosterols action is based on its ability to reduce cholesterol absorption. Doses of 0.8 to 4.0 g/d of phytosterols were used to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations by 10% to 15%, although most of the studies described used 2 g/d of phytosterol to achieve a reduction of 10% in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations. Although some studies point to the possibility that elevated plasma phytosterol concentrations could contribute to the development of premature coronary artery diseases, extensive safety evaluation studies have been conducted for these compounds, and they have been considered safe.