What are the 3 types of sterols?

Sterols occur in the membranes of plants, animals, and microorganisms and are termed phytosterols, zoosterols, and mycosterols, respectively. Cholesterol is the main zoosterol, but sterols in plants commonly occur as mixtures with β-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol representing three of the major phytosterols.

What are plant sterols stanols from esters?

Phytosterols (referred to as plant sterol and stanol esters) are a group of naturally occurring compounds found in plant cell membranes. Because phytosterols are structurally similar to the body’s cholesterol, when they are consumed they compete with cholesterol for absorption in the digestive system.

Can plant sterols replace statins?

Plant sterols may not reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke like statins do. However, it is proven that sterols can help reduce LDL cholesterol.

What are sterols and stanols?

Plant sterols and stanols are found in the membranes of plant cells. Because they have a similar structure to cholesterol, they ‘compete’ with cholesterol in the digestive tract.

Can sterols or stanols be incorporated into margarine?

If sterols or stanols are esterified (combined with fatty acids), then they can be incorporated into margarine. We consume many sterols from plant sources (sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol), shellfish (desmosterol and fucosterol) and animal sources (cholesterol).

Are plant stanols and sterols safe to use?

Studies have shown that products containing plant stanols and sterols are safe to use in conjunction with and as an addition to cholesterol-lowering medications, but they should not replace what is prescribed by a doctor.

Do sterols and stanols in foods lower cholesterol?

The amount of natural sterols and stanols in these foods is a good bit lower than the daily amount you’d need to lower your cholesterol. But some manufacturers fortify their foods with them. Adding fortified foods to your diet can help round up your daily intake. You can find added sterols and stanols, also called phytosterols, in some: Margarines