Phytosterols are plant compounds that resemble cholesterol in structure. They compete with dietary cholesterol for absorption in the gut, so less cholesterol enters the bloodstream.
People use them to support heart health by keeping cholesterol levels within a normal range. A large body of research backs this use, and health authorities recognize it as a dietary approach for healthy cholesterol.
Take phytosterols with a meal that contains some fat for best absorption. They come as fortified foods, capsules, and softgels. Regular daily intake matters most, and benefits appear when you take them consistently alongside a balanced diet.
They can reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. If you have sitosterolemia, a rare genetic condition, avoid these supplements. Check with a doctor before using them, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking cholesterol-lowering drugs.