Beta-sitosterol is a
plant sterol, a compound that is closely related to
cholesterol but comes from plants. Although many foods contain small amounts of beta-sitosterol, there is much interest in using it as a
dietary supplement, especially in the form of function foods, such as margarines or spreads. Beta-sitosterol is claimed to be beneficial for the following conditions
There are many other purported uses of beta-sitosterol as well, some of which are more valid than others.
How Does Beta-Sitosterol Work?
Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol, a compound similar to cholesterol. It is not absorbed much from the
digestive system to the rest of the body, so it works mostly within the digestive system. It works by blocking the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine. Cholesterol in the intestine comes from two sources: food and the liver. The liver secretes cholesterol into the intestines in the form of bile, and some of this cholesterol is reabsorbed back into the body. Because beta-sitosterol decreases the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, it can decrease
cholesterol levels in the body, even if you do not eat much cholesterol, because of the cholesterol from the liver.
Beta-sitosterol may work for an enlarged prostate by inhibiting an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, blocking the conversion of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), thereby decreasing the amount of DHT in the body. Since DHT is important for enlargement of the prostate, this may be how beta-sitosterol works for BPH. In fact, several prescription prostate medications work in a similar way. Since these medications are also effective for hair loss (particularly male pattern baldness), it is possible that beta-sitosterol may also work for hair loss, although no adequate research has shown this to be the case.
Is Beta-Sitosterol Effective?
Dosing Information for Beta-Sitosterol
Based on clinical studies, basic dosing recommendations for beta-sitosterol are available. The recommended dose will depend on the particular product you take.
Side Effects of Beta-Sitosterol
Beta-sitosterol usually does not cause many side effects. If they do occur, side effects may include:
(Click Beta-Sitosterol Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Beta-Sitosterol
Safety Issues With Beta-Sitosterol
Beta-sitosterol is probably safe for most people when taken in normal amounts, such as amounts found in food, but higher doses could cause problems. Some people may be more likely to experience problems than others. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking beta-sitosterol if you have:
- A vitamin deficiency due to malabsorption digestive problems
- Sitosterolemia (phytosterolaemia), a rare genetic condition
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Beta-Sitosterol?
It is not known exactly what to expect from an overdose of beta-sitosterol, or even if an overdose is possible, but it is reasonable to assume that taking too much may cause the usual side effects of beta-sitosterol, but perhaps more severely.
How Should Beta-Sitosterol Be Stored?
Refer to the label of your individual beta-sitosterol product for information on how to best store it. Keep beta-sitosterol and all medications and supplements out of the reach of children.
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