sitosterolrich

Sitosterolrich is a term used in nutrition science and industry to describe plant materials, extracts, or products that have been enriched to contain elevated levels of sitosterol, one of the most common phytosterols in the plant kingdom. Sitosterol is a sterol molecule structurally related to cholesterol and frequently coexists with campesterol and stigmasterol in many vegetables, nuts, seeds, and oils.

Production and composition: Sitosterolrich materials are produced by extracting sitosterol from plant sources, followed by purification and concentration. Common sources include vegetable oils (such as corn, soybean, and canola), seeds, and nuts. Enrichment can be achieved by solvent extraction, filtration, and chromatographic methods, yielding concentrates or powders with higher sitosterol content than typical foods.

Applications: Sitosterolrich is used in dietary supplements, fortified foods (margarines, spreads, beverages), and sometimes cosmetics, where sitosterol contributes to functional properties or acts as an active component.

Health and safety: In the general population, plant sterols can contribute to reducing LDL cholesterol when included as part of a heart-healthy diet. People with sitosterolemia, a rare inherited condition, should avoid high plant sterol intake. High levels of sitosterol can interfere with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and carotenoids in some individuals; dosing should be guided by product labels and healthcare advice.

See also: Plant sterols, beta-sitosterol, sitosterolemia, functional foods.