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Phytosterols: A New Buzzword in Healthy Eating

The current FDA health claim for phytosterols says that, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, phytosterols "may reduce the risk of heart disease", and recommends a daily serving of at least 800 mg of these plant chemicals. What exactly are phytosterols, and why are they so important?
Phytosterols, or plant fats, are naturally occurring chemicals found in plants. Insoluble in water, they provide the raw materials needed to manufacture hormones for the body to function optimally. Simply put, they are specific food for hormone production: the body easily absorbs and converts them into the type of hormones needed by the body, in the right amount at any given time.

Phytosterols are found in foods such as soy products, nuts, legumes and whole grains, including many quality products made by Hodgson Mill. Trials published in the British Journal of Nutrition and European Journal of Clinical Nutrition have shown that these plant chemicals block the absorption of dietary cholesterols into the bloodstream and inhibit re-absorption during the dietary process. This helps lead to a decrease of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), so-called “bad” cholesterol, even by as much as 6-7 percent! There is also increasing evidence that phytosterols can work to balance the immune system, boosting an underactive response system or moderating an overactive one. This holds great promise for those with chronic viral infections or allergies. Other health benefits of phytosterols currently being researched include providing relief for rheumatoid arthritis, the potential ability of phytosterols to help contain the spread of some cancers, and diabetes control, where phytosterols have been shown to activate pancreatic beta cells to stimulate improved insulin production. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about your needs regarding phytosterols.

Hodgson Mill continues to stay connected to the forefront of research news as more benefits of phytosterols are uncovered.  Meantime, our wide array of products make sure that we are on trek for a healthy dose of phytosterols daily -- and with that, a healthier, happier heart.