Beta-sitosterol
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
Beta-sitosterol is found in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, soybeans, breads, peanuts and peanut products. It is also found in bourbon and oils, (like olive oil, flaxseed and tuna).

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
High cholesterol A
Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) (enlarged prostate) B
Baldness (treatment) C
HIV C
Immune suppression C
Rheumatoid arthritis C
Tuberculosis (as additional treatment) C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to beta-sitosterol, beta-sitosterol glucoside or pine. Use cautiously with asthma or breathing disorders, diabetes, primary biliary cirrhosis (destruction of the small bile duct in the liver), ileostomy, neurodegenerative disorders (like Parkinsonism or Alzheimer's disease), diverticular disease (bulging of the colon), short bowel syndrome, celiac disease and sitosterolemia. Use cautiously with a history of gallstones. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:
Asthma, change in blood sugar levels, constipation, decreased sex drive, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, erectile dysfunction, nausea.

Possible interactions:
Abarbose, acid-labile antibiotics, activated charcoal, drugs that effect blood sugar levels, cholesterol-lowering drugs (like lifibrol), anti-platelet drugs, anti-tuberculosis drugs, cholestyramine, cyclooxygenase inhibitors, diosgenin, ezetimibe, Finasteride and alpha1-blockers, High-lipase pancreatin, hormone replacement therapy, NMDA receptor antagonists, statins, vitamin E (tocopherol), beta carotene, beta-lactoglobulin tryptic hydrolysate (LTH), carotenoids, fat soluble vitamins, olestra, and herbs or supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
Benign prostatic hypertrophy (enlarged prostate):One capsule of 20mg beta-sitosterol and 0.2mg beta-sitosterol glucoside has been used three times daily.
HIV: One capsule of 20mg beta-sitosterol and 0.2mg beta-sitosterol glucoside has been used three times daily for at least six months.
High cholesterol: Margarine and salad dressings with 1.6-9g of phytosterol esters have been shown to lower cholesterol and LDL, when taken daily. 1.5g-2g of sitostanol has been taken daily. 6-18g of beta-sitosterol has been taken daily. 1.7g of beta-sitosterol n three cups of yogurt has been taken.
Post-marathon immune suppression: One capsule of 20mg of beta-sitosterol and 0.2mg beta-sitosterol glucoside has been used three times daily
Rheumatoid arthritis: One capsule of 20mg beta-sitosterol and 0.2mg beta-sitosterol glucoside has been used three times daily

Children (younger than 18 years):
High cholesterol: 1.5g of plant stanols has been used daily in six year-old children. 1.2g of plant sterols has been taken daily in 7-13 year-old children. 2.3g of plant sterols has been taken daily in 5-12 year old children.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.