Definition of a Sterol

Sterols are also known as phytosterols. Sterols are components found in the cell membranes of plants. When eating sterols, the body recognizes and processes phytosterols as cholesterol. Increased intake of sterols can lower cholesterol levels.

Types

• As of November 2009, there are 44 identified types of sterols.

Function

• The body sees phytosterols as cholesterol, but can't actually digest sterols. The sterols block the absorption of cholesterol as they pass through the gastrointestinal tract.

Expert Insight

• A 1999 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition determined that people with high cholesterol lowered their low-density lipoprotein, the "bad" cholesterol, by an average of 24 percent when consuming 1.8 grams of sterols daily for four weeks.

Sources

• Rich sources of sterols include rice bran, flaxseed, coconut, beets, onions, oranges, bananas, cashews and peas.

RDI

• The average American diet only includes 0.3 grams of phytosterols each day, though recommended daily intake is at least one gram.