What is beta-sitosterol and how does it work in the body? — Beta-Sitosterol, 60 Softgels – Swanson

Beta-sitosterol is one of the best-known phytosterols, that is, plant sterols. Such substances occur naturally in various plants and are structurally similar to cholesterol. It is precisely this similarity that leads people who pay close attention to their diet's composition to choose them.

Beta-sitosterol's main action occurs at the digestive level. It competes with cholesterol for absorption in the intestine: plant sterols take up some of the "places" in the process of fat absorption, which means cholesterol from food may be absorbed in a smaller amount. For this reason, supplements with phytosterols are often seen as part of a considered diet, especially for someone who watches the balance of fats in their meals.

It is important to understand that this is not a medicine but a source of plant sterols in capsule form. The product is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent disease, and does not replace a balanced diet.