The role of plant sterols in dietary control of high plasma cholesterol levels

Abstract

There is irrefutable evidence that high cholesterol levels are associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). The first approach to lowering cholesterol levels is through lifestyle changes such as dietary modification, increased exercise and weight loss (if overweight). Changing to a more plant-based diet, low in cholesterol and saturated fats, is usually the first change recommended by physicians. However, most of us are not psychologically or practically able to comply with such lifestyle changes over the long term. New ideas are needed to improve the cholesterol-lowering effects of dietary interventions, including the development of healthier foods.