Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol, structurally similar to cholesterol, and it is naturally found in plants: fruits, vegetables, beans (especially soy), nuts, and seeds. Beta-sitosterol is able to inhibit intestinal absorption of dietary cholesterol by competing with cholesterol during intestinal uptake, thus reducing plasmatic LDL levels. Plant sterols’ ability to beneft cardiovascular health have
been awarded with an approved EU health claim for maintenance of healthy blood cholesterol levels.