Beta-Sitosterol and immunity

20/03/2017

What is beta sitosterol?

   Beta-Sitosterol is a natural plant sterol that occurs in foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, with a structure similar to cholesterol. Has many beneficial actions, thus can reduce cholesterol, and hair loss, and acts against prostatic hyperplasia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Also beta sitosterol glycosides have also immuno-regulatory actions.

Immune system

   The combination of beta-sitosterol and its glycoside (sterolin) can offer relief from many symptoms connected to auto-immune disease ans also can reduce inflammation. More precisely reduces interleukin IL-6 and factor TNF-Α. Also can increase the anti-ageing hormone DHEA by reducing cortisol stress hormone. .

Thus beta sitosterol can be used preventive and therapeutically for many health states that involve immune system dysregulation and inflammation such as:

  • Herpes, Human Papilloma virus (HPV), warts
  • Auto-immune disease: lupus (SLE), psoriasis, vitiligo, reumatoid arthritis, chronic fatique syndrome
  • Allergies
  • Asthma
  • Protection from cold and flu

   In Greece there is available a nutritional supplement, the Moducare Modullon with a patented content of beta sitosterols and sterolins (20 mg and 0,20 mg respectivelly) od high bioavailability and action.

Contra-indications

   Beta sitosterol is generally considered as safe. Intake during pregnancy and lactation has not been yet studied, so its better to be avoided. Patients with inherited sitosterolaimia and those that take drugs such as Η ezetimibe and pravastatinmust not take beta sitosterol.

Efi Daskalou

PhD, MSc, BSc Dietitian - Nutritionist specializing in Nutritional Assessment, Child Nutrition and Nutritional Supplements. Associate of vita4you.gr, Nutrition Advisor on Dietary Supplements, content editor of the "Ask the Experts" column.

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Disclaimer

The content of this blogspot is not and can not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All information is provided to readers solely for informational purposes. There is no intention to substitute this content for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, prognosis or treatment.

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