Phytosterols

Same as cholesterol found in meat and animal products (eggs, meals…), phytosterols belong to a chemical family. Phytosterols are specific to the plant kingdom, with beta-sitosterol, campesterol and stigmasterol being the most common. Phytosterols differ from phytostanols. Phytosterols are compounds whose structure is similar to cholesterol and are derived from plants, whereas phytostanols (or stanols), although present naturally in small quantities, are generally compounds that are artificially hydrogenated from phytosterols.

Phytosterols can slow down the absorption of cholesterol during digestion. Due to their similar chemical structure, phytosterols interfere with the absorption of cholesterol by occupying its absorption sites in the intestine. A daily intake of 1.5 to 2 g of phytosterols significantly reduces LDL cholesterol levels (by up to 15 %) and improves the HDL / LDL ratio.

Beta-sitosterol also alleviates prostate discomfort.

drt nutraceutics has produced phytosterols for more than 40 years. phytopin®, a pine phytosterol, is a natural extract characterized by its purity and its constant quality. phytopin® has received the agreement of the European Commission for its use in functional foods and dietary supplements. phytopin® is also used in cosmetics.