Beta-sitosterol

Modest cholesterol-lowering effect is real and FDA-acknowledged. BPH symptom data are encouraging but not definitive.

A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.

Plant sterol intake of 2 g/day lowers LDL by ~5–15% (FDA-permitted health claim). Cochrane review of beta-sitosterol for BPH found improved urinary symptom scores, but studies were of moderate quality.

• Lowers LDL cholesterol via absorption competition
• May improve BPH urinary symptoms
• Well-tolerated at standard doses

800–2000 mg/day of plant sterols (including beta-sitosterol) with meals for cholesterol. 60–130 mg/day studied for BPH.

• Mild GI discomfort
• Potential fat-soluble vitamin malabsorption at high doses

Rare genetic condition (sitosterolaemia) contraindicates use. May reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins at high doses.

Cholesterol lowering is modest in absolute terms. BPH benefit data are older and methodologically limited.

• Longevity35