fitosterole
Fitosterole, or plant sterols, are naturally occurring compounds found in the cell membranes of plants. Structurally similar to cholesterol, they play a crucial role in plant physiology by maintaining membrane fluidity and integrity. Chemically, fitosterole belong to the class of sterols, which are a subgroup of steroids, and are characterized by a fused four-ring structure with a hydroxyl group attached.
The most common types of fitosterole include beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and campesterol. Beta-sitosterol is the most prevalent,
Fitosterole have gained attention for their potential health benefits, particularly in cardiovascular health. Research suggests that
Fitosterole are generally considered safe for most people when consumed as part of a balanced diet or