What is Phytosterol?
Phytosterols are compounds that may help lower cholesterol levels and offer other health benefits. These compounds are found in plants like nuts, seeds, grains and legumes. Also known as plant sterols or stanols, phytosterols are structurally similar to cholesterol, a waxy substance found in animal foods. However, unlike cholesterol, which is synthesized by the liver, phytosterols are obtained via a person's diet or through supplement form.
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Xi'an Green Spring Technology Co., Ltd. was established in 2000, We are an excellent supplier specializing in plant extracts for 23 years. For more than decade, we has been committing to the innovation and development of modernization technology of traditional Chinese medicine, as well as the research and development and extraction of plant active ingredients.
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The company's main products are saw palmetto extract, stevia, natural ferulic acid, berberine HCL (berberine hydrochloride) and other products, Which are widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, health supplements, cosmetics and other fields.
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Our quality team and laboratory is your quality team,your laboratory.We are dedicated to providing clients with the highest quality nutritional ingredients to make the best possible products. This mission starts by ensuring that high standards are met at every step of the supply chain.
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Advantages Of Phytosterol
Phytosterols Benefits for Your Health
Antioxidant allies
Some phytosterols act as antioxidants, protecting your body against oxidative stress. Stress is linked to many diseases, like cardiovascular diseases, mental health conditions, and even cancer! The antioxidant activity of phytosterols aids in reducing the risk of these conditions and promotes healthy cellular growth.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Chronic inflammation is a symptom of diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Fortunately, phytosterols come to the rescue again. Phytosterols benefit chronic inflammation situations and promote overall health. By including phytosterol-rich foods in your diet, you can lower inflammation levels.
Cholesterol champion
Phytosterols are renowned for their cholesterol-lowering effects. They absorb healthy cholesterols from the intestines and prevent excessive cholesterol from entering the bloodstream. As a result, you can significantly decrease LDL cholesterol levels by incorporating phytosterols into your diet. In people with sitosterolemia (excessive absorption of plant sterols), high plant sterol levels have been associated with an increased risk of premature atherosclerosis.
Application of Phytosterol
1. Hair Health Support
Preliminary studies indicate that beta-sitosterol may be helpful for maintaining normal hair growth as you age.
2. Healthy Cholesterol Level management
Phytosterols may be able to help maintain a healthy cholesterol profile. They may also help to support the normal functioning of the heart.
3. Antioxidant Support
Phytosterols may have antioxidant properties, which can help to support cell membranes.
4. Prostate Health Support
A study of beta-sitosterol indicates that it may be helpful in managing prostate enlargement. The suspected mechanism for this effect is the inhibition of 5-alpha reductase production by the prostate gland.
Structures and Occurrence of Phytosterol
Structural Features
Plant sterols possess a common structural framework consisting of four fused rings: three cyclohexane rings (A, B, and C) and one cyclopentane ring (D). The rings are numbered from A to D, with carbon atoms labeled accordingly. The cyclohexane rings are labeled as rings A, B, and C in a clockwise direction, while the cyclopentane ring is labeled as ring D.
In plant sterols, the side chains or functional groups attached to the steroid nucleus may vary, leading to structural diversity among different sterols. The most prevalent plant sterols include sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol.
Sitosterol, one of the most abundant plant sterols, contains an ethyl group at carbon atom 24 (C-24). Campesterol, another common plant sterol, has a methyl group at the C-24 position. Stigmasterol, found in various plants, possesses a double bond at carbon atom 22 (C-22) and a methyl group at C-24. These structural modifications contribute to the distinct properties and functions of different plant sterols.
Occurrence in Nature
Plant sterols are abundant throughout the plant world and can be discovered in a variety of plant tissues and organs. Vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are particularly high in them. Plant sterol concentrations differ between plant species and sections.
Plant sterol levels are high in several plants, such as soybeans, wheat germ, and corn. Soybean oil, for example, includes high levels of -sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol. Avocados, almonds, and lentils are also high in plant sterols.
The presence of plant sterols in food products has sparked considerable interest due to their possible health advantages. As a result, plant sterols are increasingly being included into functional foods such as spreads, yogurts, and beverages to give consumers with an additional dietary supply of these compounds.
Health Implications
Plant sterols have attracted considerable interest due to their potential health benefits in humans. Numerous studies have shown that regular consumption of plant sterols can help lower LDL cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Plant sterols have a similar structure to cholesterol, and they compete with cholesterol for absorption in the intestinal tract. As a result, they can reduce cholesterol absorption, leading to decreased levels of LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream.
To harness the potential health benefits of plant sterols, various food products enriched with plant sterols, known as functional foods, are available in the market. These products are specifically formulated to provide an optimal daily intake of plant sterols, helping individuals maintain healthy cholesterol levels as part of a balanced diet.
How Do Phytosterols Lower Cholesterol?
Phytosterols (and ergosterols) are another player on the team to lower cholesterol naturally. Due to their very similar structure to animal cholesterol, they compete for absorption and reduce the amount of animal cholesterol absorbed. Use of plant sterols has been shown to significantly reduce LDL and total cholesterol, without impacting HDL. 4,5,6,7,8 The average reduction in total cholesterol ranged from roughly 5-10% and 5-20% in LDL cholesterol. As with most interventions, the law of diminishing returns applies: the larger the opportunity for improvement, the larger the effect. There also appears to be a dose response to sterols, meaning that when more is consumed, greater reductions in cholesterol are observed. One study showed a jump in the percentage of reduction in LDL from 7.4% to 17.4% when the dose was increased threefold.
Function of Phytosterols
Plant sterols are major components of plant cell membranes, where they play a crucial role in maintaining membrane structure and function. They are intercalated within the lipid bilayer, helping to regulate membrane fluidity and stability. Plant sterols modulate the packing of lipids within the membrane, influencing its permeability and integrity. By maintaining proper membrane properties, plant sterols ensure efficient transport of molecules and ions across cell membranes.
Plants face numerous environmental challenges, including temperature extremes, drought, and pathogen attacks. Plant sterols play a critical role in plant defense mechanisms against these stresses. They help maintain the integrity of cell membranes under adverse conditions, protecting cells from damage caused by dehydration, freezing, or pathogen invasion. Plant sterols also contribute to the formation of specialized membrane microdomains called lipid rafts, which are involved in signal transduction and stress responses.
Plant sterols have been recognized as important signaling molecules involved in regulating plant growth and development. They participate in various physiological processes, such as cell division, elongation, and differentiation, influencing overall plant morphology. Plant sterols have been implicated in the regulation of shoot and root growth, pollen development, and seed germination. They interact with other signaling molecules and hormones to coordinate growth processes and maintain proper plant architecture.
Certain plant sterols serve as precursors for the synthesis of bioactive compounds that play important physiological roles in plants. For example, sitosterol, one of the most abundant plant sterols, can be converted into brassinosteroids. Brassinosteroids are plant hormones involved in a wide range of growth and developmental processes, including cell elongation, seed germination, and stress responses. By acting as precursors for these bioactive compounds, plant sterols contribute to the regulation of various plant physiological pathways.
Plant sterols have gained considerable attention due to their potential health benefits in humans. Although humans cannot synthesize plant sterols, they can be obtained from dietary sources. Consumption of plant sterols has been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects, particularly on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol. Plant sterols compete with cholesterol for absorption in the intestine, leading to reduced cholesterol uptake and subsequent lowering of blood cholesterol levels. As a result, plant sterols have been incorporated into functional foods and dietary supplements aimed at managing cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Biosynthesis of Phytosterols
Mevalonate Pathway
The biosynthesis of plant sterols starts with the mevalonate pathway, a metabolic pathway found in most organisms. This pathway begins with the conversion of acetyl-CoA, a product of cellular metabolism, into mevalonic acid. Mevalonic acid is then sequentially converted into two key intermediates: isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP). These compounds serve as building blocks for the subsequent steps in sterol biosynthesis.
Cyclization and Squalene Formation
The next major step in sterol biosynthesis is the cyclization of IPP and DMAPP to form squalene. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme squalene synthase. Squalene serves as a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of sterols and other isoprenoids.
Conversion of Squalene to Cycloartenol
Squalene undergoes a series of enzymatic reactions to produce cycloartenol, a critical intermediate in plant sterol biosynthesis. The conversion of squalene to cycloartenol involves several steps, including cyclization, hydroxylation, and rearrangement reactions. These reactions are catalyzed by various enzymes, such as squalene epoxidase, squalene-hopene cyclase, and cycloartenol synthase.
Methyl Group Incorporation
After the formation of cycloartenol, additional modifications occur to generate various plant sterols. One crucial step is the incorporation of methyl groups into the sterol nucleus. This process is facilitated by the enzyme sterol methyltransferase (SMT). SMT transfers a methyl group from S-adenosyl methionine (SAM) to specific positions on the sterol molecule, resulting in the formation of different sterol variants. The exact positions and number of methyl groups incorporated vary among different sterols.
Reduction of Double Bonds and Other Modifications
Following the methylation step, further modifications take place to generate the diverse array of plant sterols found in nature. These modifications include the reduction of double bonds, removal or addition of functional groups, and other enzymatic transformations. Enzymes such as sterol reductase, sterol Δ24-reductase, and sterol C-22 desaturase play critical roles in these reactions.
Production of Specific Plant Sterols
The combination of enzymatic reactions and modifications in the biosynthetic pathway gives rise to specific plant sterols, such as sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol. Each sterol has its own unique structural features and properties, enabling them to perform distinct functions within plants.
Regulation of Sterol Biosynthesis
The biosynthesis of plant sterols is tightly regulated to maintain sterol homeostasis in plants. Various factors, including the availability of precursors, the expression of biosynthetic enzymes, and feedback regulation, influence the rate of sterol production. The coordinated regulation ensures that plants can respond to environmental cues and physiological needs while maintaining the integrity of cellular membranes.
The Science Behind Phytosterols and Skin Health
The science underlying phytosterols' advantageous effects on skin health is based on their special qualities and capacity to target particular skin issues. An overview of the ways in which phytosterols can promote skin health through moisturising and barrier function, anti-inflammatory qualities, UV protection, anti-aging effects, protection from environmental stressors, and skin hydration is provided here, based on scientific theories. Using phytosterols in skincare products-like serums, lotions, and moisturizers-can be a good approach to taking advantage of these scientifically proven advantages. Phytosterols can be administered topically to help with a variety of skin issues, such as inflammation, dryness, ageing, and UV protection. Selecting products from reliable manufacturers that incorporate phytosterols into a thorough skincare routine is crucial.
Tips and Precautions for Phytosterol Usage
Patch Test
Perform a patch test before using any new phytosterol-containing skincare or haircare product. Apply a small amount to a small, inconspicuous area of skin to test for any adverse reactions or allergies.
Choose Appropriate Products
Choose phytosterol-containing products that are appropriate for your skin and hair type. There may be products designed for dry skin, oily skin, fine hair, coarse hair, or sensitive skin.
Read Ingredient Lists
Look over product ingredient lists to make sure that plant-derived sterols, like stigmasterol, campesterol, and beta-sitosterol, are listed as significant ingredients.
Consult a Professional
You might want to consider consulting a dermatologist or trichologist if you have underlying skin or hair issues or conditions. They can offer tailored advice on how to use products containing phytosterols.
Use Consistently
Use phytosterol products consistently in accordance with the supplied instructions for the best outcomes. It may take some time to see noticeable improvements, so be patient and stick to your routine.
Protect from UV Exposure
If you use phytosterol-based skincare products during the day, pair them with sunscreen for added UV protection.
Reputable Brands
Select items from trustworthy skincare and haircare companies with a track record for high-quality, well-performing formulas. You can make well-informed decisions by reading reviews and asking for recommendations.
Who Should Not Take Phytosterols?
Phytosterols aren't recommended for people with sitosterolemia, a genetic disorder in which cholesterol and plant sterols build up in the body. High plant sterol levels may cause an increased risk of early (premature) atherosclerosis. Talk to your healthcare provider or dietitian to develop an eating plan that's right for you.
What Is the Recommended Daily Intake of Phytosterols?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), phytosterol-containing foods can help reduce your risk of heart disease. Eat foods with at least 0.65 grams per serving of phytosterols twice a day with meals (total daily intake at least 1.3 grams). Eat these foods as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
Adults with high cholesterol may need to consume a higher amount of phytosterols. The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) recommends 2 grams of phytosterols daily to help protect against cardiovascular disease risk.
In the U.S., most people get between 160 and 500 milligrams of phytosterols per day - a fraction of the recommended totals. That means you need to eat foods with added plant sterols (phytosterol-enriched) or take dietary supplements to meet that goal. Your healthcare provider can help determine if a daily phytosterol supplement is right for you.
Some spreads are fortified with plant sterols. There are three main sources of plant sterols; natural foods, fortified foods and supplements. Small amounts can be found in plant oils, grains, legumes, nuts and fruits, although the average Western diet only provides around 220 mg to 400 mg per day. You would need to consume around 150 apples to get the amount you need for cholesterol-lowering benefits.
If you wish to add an extra helping of plant sterols to your diet, fortified margarines, cereals and yoghurts are all good options. These are proven to be extremely effective at lowering cholesterol, but their inconsistent serving sizes can make it tricky to consume the exact amount of plant sterols needed.
Plant sterol supplements, sometimes marketed as ß-sitosterol, are another effective option, which has the added benefit of providing a consistent daily dose. It's important to take all forms with food.
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The company always adheres to the corporate mission of creating healthy life, strictly controls product quality and is certified with ISO9001 quality management system certificate, Halal and Kosher certificates. The company is continuously making innovations and developments and has being issued with high-tech enterprise certificate for many consecutive years. At the same time, it was granted a number of patent for inventions by State Intellectual property Office(SIPO).
Our Factory
GREEN SPRING®Xi'an Green Spring Technology Co., Ltd. was established in 2000, We are an excellent supplier specializing in plant extracts for 23 years. For more than decade, we has been committing to the innovation and development of modernization technology of traditional Chinese medicine, as well as the research and development and extraction of plant active ingredients. The company's main products are saw palmetto extract, stevia, natural ferulic acid, berberine HCL (berberine hydrochloride) and other products, Which are widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, health supplements, cosmetics and other fields.
Ultimate FAQ Guide to Phytosterol
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