Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2025

Network Pharmacology Prediction and Metabolomics Validation of the Mechanism of Fructus Phyllanthi against Hyperlipidemia
Published on: April 7, 2023
Effects of phytosterol supplementation on lipid profiles and apolipoproteins: A meta-analysis of randomized
Yi-Feng Zhang1, Wanning Qiao1, Hanxiao Feng1
1School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
Background:
The use of phytosterols and phytostanols (PS) as food supplements to control plasma cholesterol concentrations has recently received attention as its efficacy has been endorsed by scientific authorities and leading guidelines. However, the effects of phytosterols on lipid profiles and atherosclerosis remain incomplete and controversial. This study aims to investigate the effects of PS supplementation on lipid profiles and apolipoproteins in adults based on a systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Methods:
A comprehensive search was conducted for RCTs published in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science as of May 2024. Random effects model was utilized to determine the mean differences and 95% confidence interval for changes in circulating lipid profiles and apolipoproteins.
Results:
Twenty-eight RCTs with a total of 1777 participants (895 cases and 882 controls) are included in the qualitative synthesis. PS supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), and apolipoprotein B (Apo-B) levels, as well as Apo-B/apolipoprotein A1 ratios, but increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. PS supplementation dose is associated with TC, LDL-c, and Apo-B levels in a dose-response manner.
Conclusion:
Our findings suggest that dietary phytosterols can effectively promote the reduction of TC, LDL-c, and Apo-B, along with increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in adults.
Related Concept Videos
Lipid-Lowering Drugs: Statins and Miscellaneous Agents
Overview of Fatty Acid Metabolism
Fatty acids are catabolized in a process called beta-oxidation, which takes place in the matrix of the mitochondria and converts their fatty acid chains into two-carbon units of acetyl groups. The acetyl...
Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System III: Serum Lipid Profile
Serum lipids are fats and fatty substances in the blood and are crucial for various bodily functions, including energy storage, cellular structure, and hormone production. Serum lipids consist of cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids.
Cholesterol is a soft, fat-like substance found in all body cells. It is crucial for producing hormones, vitamin D, and substances that aid...
Cholesterol: Significance and Regulation
Considering cholesterol and...
Atherosclerosis III: Management
Lipids: Dietary Sources and Requirements

