Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Sterols play major role in dietary portfolio for hearts

Almost one-third of cholesterol reductions achieved by consuming a heart-healthy diet are due to plant sterols, suggests a new study from the journal Metabolism.

Numerous clinical trials in controlled settings have reported that daily consumption of 1.5 to 3 grams of phytosterols/-stanols can reduce total cholesterol levels by eight to 17 per cent, representing a significant reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Jenkins and co-workers prescribed the 42 subjects (average age 63) to a diet containing viscous fibres, soy protein, and almonds for 80 weeks. In addition, plant sterols were taken, except during weeks 52 to 62.

Over the course of the study, LDL-cholesterol levels decreased by an average of 15.4 per cent, while such reductions were only 9.0 per cent in the absence of plant sterols.

Steve - this was a small study, but another strong addition to sterols/stanols effectiveness in cardiovascular disease prevention.

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