Phytosterol-enriched foods are efficacious for reducing levels of LDL
cholesterol, with no differences between stanols and sterols, or
delivery in fat or non fat foods, says a new review.
By reviewing 84 trials, researchers from Unilever R&D and Wageningen
University report that the science supports the incorporation of
phytosterols in various food formats. The findings are published in the
new issue of the Journal of Nutrition.
“For the recommended intake of two grams per day, the expected
LDL-C–lowering effect of phytosterols is about 9%” wrote the authors,
led by Isabelle Demonty.
“A reduction in LDL-C of about 10% would reduce the incidence of CHD by about 10-20%”.
“Although no direct evidence is available yet for the ability of
phytosterols to lower CHD incidence, the well-documented
cholesterol-lowering effect of phytosterols is the basis for
recommendations to include phytosterols into strategies to lower LDL-C
concentrations,” they added.
The study is important as phytosterols are incorporated into more and more food matrices.
According to a recent market research conducted by Frost & Sullivan,
phytosterols are the most heart health targeted and benefited from
approved health claims
in many markets (as well as recently approval from the European Food Safety Authority). Read more
By Stephen Daniells, 27-Jan-2009
Source: Journal of Nutrition
Volume 139, Pages 271-284
“Continuous dose-response relationship of the LDL-cholesterol-lowering effect of phytosterol intake”
Authors: I. Demonty, R.T. Ras RT, H.C.M. van der Knaap, G.S.M.J.E.
Duchateau, L. Meijer, P.L. Zock, J.M. Geleijnse, E.A. Trautwein
Category: Productos
Source: Nutraingredients.com