Plant sterols as dietary adjuvants in the reduction of cardiovascular risk: theory and evidence.
Plant sterol-enriched foods are an effective dietary adjuvant in reducing cardiovascular risk by lowering total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) in serum by up to approximately 15%. The mechanism of action of plant sterols is different from those of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A inhibitors (statins) and thus their effect is additive. Combining plant sterols with other dietary components known to reduce cholesterol in a portfolio approach has proven to be most effective for reduction of hypercholesterolemia and provide an alternative treatment option for clinicians. Plant sterol-enriched foods provides clinicians with a relatively cheap, safe, and effective way to help patients manage their cardiovascular risk.
Patch
Craig S
CS
National Centre of Excellence in Functional Foods, Northfields Avenue, University of Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia. cpatch@nceff.com.au
Tapsell
Linda C
LC
Williams
Peter G
PG
Gordon
Michelle
M
D000818:Animals; D000924:Anticholesteremic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002784:Cholesterol / Q000097:blood; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL / Q000097:blood; D004032:Diet; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006937:Hypercholesterolemia / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010840:Phytosterols / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008517:Phytotherapy; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012307:Risk Factors
D000924:Anticholesteremic Agents; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; D010840:Phytosterols; D002784:Cholesterol