Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsUsesSide EffectsPrecautionsDosageWhat Happens If I Take Too Much?InteractionsSimilar SupplementsSourcesFAQ
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Uses
Side Effects
Precautions
Dosage
What Happens If I Take Too Much?
Interactions
Similar Supplements
Sources
FAQ
Beta-sitosterolis sometimes used to reducehigh cholesterol. It has also been studied as a way to treat a host of other health conditions, like high blood sugar and enlarged prostate, but more research is needed to conclusively state its effects.
Naturally found in plants, beta-sitosterol can be consumed through food sources such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and legumes. It is also available in supplement form and a lipid emulsion.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for third-party tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
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Uses of Beta-Sitosterol
Research has shown that phytosterols, including beta-sitosterol, can play a role in helping certain medical conditions.
However, many studies on beta-sitosterol have been animal studies. Although we can often learn from animal studies, we cannot definitively say that the results in animals will be the same in humans.
Despite this, there is some interesting research involving beta-sitosterol and various health concerns that we will look at next.
May Reduce Cholesterol
The beta-sitosterol eaten from plants competes with cholesterol for absorption in your intestines. Over time, this can reduce the risk ofatherosclerosisorhyperlipidemia, which can lead toheart disease. In short, phytosterols like beta-sitosterol are thought to reduce your risk of heart disease.
The FDA has approved the claim that phytosterols (including beta-sitosterol) in the diet can reduce your risk of heart disease. However, anything less than 1.3 grams (g) per day of phytosterols does not lower your heart disease risk.
May Improve Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Beta-sitosterol may aid in the treatment of an enlarged prostate. This condition is also known asbenign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH) and can block the flow of urine.
A new study or review on this subject is needed to provide an update on the use of beta-sitosterol for BPH.
Beta-sitosterol cannot directly treat BPH on its own.Traditional drugsused to treat this condition can help treat decreased or hesitant urinary flow.
May Have Anti-cancer Properties
Advocates of beta-sitosterol claim that it may have anti-cancer properties.However, most evidence supporting these claims is based on test tube studies (also called in vitro), which we can learn from but not use as strong evidence.
A trial from 2010 that used both in vitro and in vivo models found that beta-sitosterol made from tropical milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) slowed the growth of human colon cancer cells. The in vivo models of the study included male rats.
Similarly, a 2003 study found that beta-sitosterol inducedapoptosis, or cell death, in breast cancer cells. Apoptosis is key to stopping the spread of cancer cells. But, again, this research was done in a test tube rather than on humans.
May Help Reduce Blood Sugar
Although human trials are lacking, there is evidence from animal studies that beta-sitosterol could positively affectdiabetes.
In one study on rats, beta-sitosterol provided both antioxidant and antidiabetic effects. The results showed that beta-sitosterol reduced blood sugar levels in the rats, possibly due to increasedinsulinresponse.
In another study, rats with diabetes taking 20 milligrams/kilograms of beta-sitosterol per day had normalized blood sugar and insulin levels at the end of 30 days of taking the supplement.
Human trials on the effects of beta-sitosterol on diabetes are needed. Although animal trial results have been encouraging, it cannot be stated with certainty that beta-sitosterol will improve outcomes for people with diabetes.
Other Potential Uses
Beta-sitosterol has also been studied in the following conditions:
What Are the Side Effects of Beta-Sitosterol?
Beta-sitosterol and other phytosterols are generally considered safe. But, as with any supplement or medication, side effects are possible. These side effects may be common or severe.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects associated with taking beta-sitosterol are gastrointestinal.
Common side effects of beta-sitosterol include:
Severe Side Effects
Little to no severe side effects have been found in studies on beta-sitosterol and other phytosterols. When side effects do occur, they tend to be one of the common side effects just discussed.
People with a rare genetic condition calledsitosterolemiamay be more likely to experience severe side effects. People with sitosterolemia are unable to absorb and excrete beta-sitosterol correctly. This leads to a buildup of beta-sitosterol, which can cause serious side effects likeatherosclerosisand other health issues.
To avoid side effects talk to your healthcare provider before taking beta-sitosterol supplements.
Due to the lack of safety research, children and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using beta-sitosterol. While no research has shown that beta-sitosterol is dangerous for these populations, there is not enough research to know if it is safe.
Dosage: How Much Beta-Sitosterol Should I Take?
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
There are no universal guidelines for how to use beta-sitosterol supplements, including dosage.
A dose of 2 grams per day of beta-sitosterol has been found to be beneficial in lowering LDL cholesterol.Other research has suggested that taking up to 3.4 grams of beta-sitosterol daily can help lower high cholesterol, but taking more than 3.4 grams will provide no further benefits.
For benign prostatic hyperplasia, a dose of 60 milligrams two times per day has been suggested.
Talk with a healthcare provider to find the right beta-sitosterol dosage for you,
What Happens if I Take Too Much Beta-Sitosterol?
Beta-sitosterol is not thought to be toxic. An overdose is also not likely with this supplement.
There is no upper limit (UL) in place for beta-sitosterol. An upper limit is a maximum quantity or dose that may cause adverse effects if exceeded.
Many supplements interact with other medications or nutrients. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking before starting a new supplement.
Beta-sitosterol may interact with:
Statins
Beta-sitosterol may interact withstatins, a medication used to lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Statins may increase the absorption of beta-sitosterol.
Ezetimibe
Ezetimibe, another drug, may also interact with beta-sitosterol. Ezetimibe, also known as Zetia, also lowers LDL cholesterol and may block the absorption of beta-sitosterol in the body.
Carotenoids
A 2017 meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that phytosterols can interact withcarotenoids. The analysis concluded that phytosterols reduced carotenoids in the blood. However, it’s important to point out that this study did not differentiate the type of phytosterols used, so we do not know if beta-sitosterol was included in the review.
It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts label when choosing any supplement to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included. Before starting beta-sitosterol, please review the supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.
Some other supplements on the market may be similar to beta-sitosterol. It is not usually necessary (or recommended) to take two supplements for the same health condition. Talk with your healthcare provider about which supplement would be best for you and your health.
Supplements that may be similar and used for the same health conditions as beta-sitosterol include:
Sources of Beta-Sitosterol and What to Look For
Beta-sitosterol and other phytosterols are widely available in food. Because of this, it is easy for most people to get plenty of beta-sitosterol through their diet.
A food-first approach to all nutrients is best, including beta-sitosterol. However, a beta-sitosterol supplement may sometimes be needed, for example, when a healthcare provider recommends it.
Food Sources of Beta-Sitosterol
Beta-sitosterol is found in plant-based foods. Many foods contain beta-sitosterol, includingnuts, oils, wheat, and beans.
Good food sources of beta-sitosterol include, but are not limited to:
There are many ways to fit these and other beta-sitosterol-containing foods into your diet. While nuts make great snacks, beans or lentils can make great side dishes. Cooking withvegetable oilis thought to be heart-healthy.
Beta-Sitosterol Supplements
It is always best to get the nutrients you need from food first. However, sometimes it can be difficult for some people to get a variety of nutritious foods into their diet, and supplements can be the answer.
You can find beta-sitosterol supplements in capsule, tablet, or soft gel form. Some versions of the supplement are vegan or gluten-free.
Other ingredients may be present in beta-sitosterol supplements, such as fish oil, magnesium, or soy. Remember to check the product label for any ingredients you are allergic to before purchasing a beta-sitosterol supplement.
Summary
Beta-sitosterol is a phytosterol that is found in plants. Beta-sitosterol is sometimes used to reduce cholesterol levels because it is similar in structure to cholesterol. It has also been studied for its role in improving symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Although beta-sitosterol is available in supplement form, many everyday foods like nuts, beans, and vegetable oils also contain it.
Side effects of beta-sitosterol are typically not severe and may only occur if you take more than is recommended. Therefore, beta-sitosterol is recognized as a generally safe supplement.
Always speak with a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, and be sure to share any health conditions you may have or medications you are taking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Beta-sitosterol supplements appear to be safe for most men who take them for BPH. For some people, though, beta-sitosterol may cause an upset stomach or other gastrointestinal side effects.If you experience side effects from taking beta-sitosterol for BPH, check with your healthcare provider to be sure that your symptoms are not related to a different condition that needs other treatment.Learn MoreWhat Is BPH, or Enlargement of the Prostate?
Beta-sitosterol supplements appear to be safe for most men who take them for BPH. For some people, though, beta-sitosterol may cause an upset stomach or other gastrointestinal side effects.If you experience side effects from taking beta-sitosterol for BPH, check with your healthcare provider to be sure that your symptoms are not related to a different condition that needs other treatment.
Beta-sitosterol supplements appear to be safe for most men who take them for BPH. For some people, though, beta-sitosterol may cause an upset stomach or other gastrointestinal side effects.
If you experience side effects from taking beta-sitosterol for BPH, check with your healthcare provider to be sure that your symptoms are not related to a different condition that needs other treatment.
Learn MoreWhat Is BPH, or Enlargement of the Prostate?
Researchers are looking to see if beta-sitosterol may have other benefits for heart health, including preventing blood clots, but the research is not sufficient yet.
Learn MoreBlood Thinners: What You Should Know
Learn MoreDietary Supplements
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