Sterol ester

Sterol esters are a heterogeneous group of chemical compounds known to reduce the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in blood when ingested. The starting material are phytosterols, which are then esterified with a mixture of fatty acids also derived from plants. Sterol esters are found naturally occurring in small quantities in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, cereals, legumes, and vegetable oils.

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Sterol esters are added to certain oil-containing products like margarine, milk, or yogurt. Studies have indicated that consumption of about 2 grams per day provides a reduction in LDL cholesterol of about 10 percent. Its functionality is similar to that of stanol ester.

Sterol esters are added to certain Unilever products under the brand name Becel/Flora.

References

• M.B. Katan et al, Efficacy and Safety of Plant Stanols and Sterols in the Management of Blood Cholesterol Levels, Mayo Clinic Proceedings 78, 965-978 (2003)