Meghan Lyons, M.S.
Oct 24, 2011
Sterols and stanols are plant-based compounds that have been clinically shown to effectively, naturally and safely lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Sterols and stanols work to prevent the absorption of dietary sources of cholesterol, which in turn helps to lower total and LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. For people who aim to take an active step towards improving their lipid profile, incorporating sterols and stanols in the diet can be a very valuable choice.
Sterols and Stanols are Recommended by the National Cholesterol Education Program
As an initial step in the cholesterol management process, the National Cholesterol Education Program as supported by the National Institutes of Health recommends 2 grams (2000 mg) of plant sterols and stanols per day.
Americans Don’t Get Enough Sterols and Stanols from Diet Alone
Although sterols and stanols are naturally found in fruits, vegetables and grains, they occur in very small quantities, which explains why the average Western diet merely provides 200 to 300 mg per day. In fact, to meet the recommended 2000 mg through dietary intake alone, one would have to consume an enormous amount of approximately 55 large bananas or 13 cups of almonds. To that end, choosing a supplement that delivers an effective dose of sterols and stanols can be both a convenient and helpful way to achieve results.
A Safe and Effective Supplement for Improving Cholesterol Levels and Supporting Heart Health
Products containing at least 400 mg per serving of plant sterols and stanols, eaten twice a day with meals for a daily intake of at least 800 mg as part of a diet low in satured fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. Nature Made CholestOff delivers 1800 mg of sterols and stanols per day and is a great option for people who are concerned about their cholesterol levels due to their dietary intake of cholesterol. Each daily serving of CholestOff provides 1800 mg of plant sterols and stanols, which when paired with one’s diet, offers a smart strategy for meeting the recommended 2000 mg per day and promoting overall heart health.