Sterols and stanols reduce the level of “bad” cholesterol by 15%

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Elevated cholesterol can build up in the blood vessels, eventually leading to serious health conditions such as heart attacks and strokes.

There are several factors that can lead to high levels, including exercise, age, and genetics. However, diet is often one of the main causes. People at risk or suffering from high cholesterol will be advised to reduce their intake of fatty, sugary and processed foods.

Many plant foods contain two compounds that can lower levels of “bad” cholesterol – sterols and became Two types of cholesterol in the blood, often called “good” and “bad” high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, reduce the likelihood of these complications.

Sterols and stanols are “naturally” found in various plant sources such as vegetable oils, grains, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables. They are also added to some foods, including soft cheeses and yogurts.

“Plant sterols and stanols have a chemical structure similar to cholesterol and are thought to reduce the absorption of cholesterol in our intestines. This reduction in cholesterol absorption increases our liver's absorption of LDL cholesterol and, as a result, can lower LDL cholesterol,” explains the cardiologist.

The effect varies from person to person, but there is evidence that plant sterols and stanols can help lower LDL cholesterol by 10-15 percent when regularly consumed at two grams per day as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

This amount can be found in two to three servings or in combination with:

• Yogurt
• Milk
• Cheese
• Nuts
• Whole grain porridge

< p>Foods containing sterols and stanols are not a substitute for a healthy diet or cholesterol-lowering drugs such as statins.