A cheap supplement available over the counter at the pharmacy can help cut cholesterol without statins. Plant sterols are helping Brits lower their cholesterol levels, so much so that some claim they no longer need medication.
Dr Oliver Guttmann, a consultant cardiologist at The Wellington Hospital in London, told the Mail: “Plant sterols, more widely known as phytosterols in the supplement world, are structurally very similar to cholesterol, meaning they can effectively block cholesterol absorption in the intestine, as they compete for the same absorption sites.” They help lower “bad” cholesterol levels and are good for heart health, being found naturally in nuts, seeds, oils, but often added to fortified foods like margarine and yoghurt such as Benecol. Plant sterols are available at Boots for £11.20 for 60 capsules, making them just under 19p per capsule. Taking two a day, one pack will last about a month. As the name implies, plant sterols are naturally found in plants. Clinical trials have shown that consuming 1.5-2.4 grams of plant sterols or stanols daily can reduce “bad” cholesterol by about 7-10%. Some Boots shoppers have claimed the tablets are not just a gimmick and could lead to real health-related improvements, if taken alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise. Dozens have posted five-star reviews on Boots’ website.
One said: “With a few small dietary adjustments and taking these after a few months I repeated my cholesterol test and the results were better than I had imagined, I won’t stop taking them now as I’ve had no side effects and I have a strong family history of heart disease.
Another added: “I have been using these in place of statins for over a year and they are helping to control my cholesterol levels.” A third wrote: “My cholesterol level has dropped using these and diet control – so avoided medication so far.”
But, some suggested that they saw little or no help regarding their cholesterol levels. One claimed: “I spent a year taking two of these every day. My cholesterol level has gone up from 7 to 8 and my GP wants to see me asap. What a waste of money!”
Another suggested these pills were not the easiest to take. They said: “Just be aware that these torpedo-shaped tablets are very large (2.5cm long) and not easy to swallow. In fact, I can’t take them.” A third wrote: “I was really hoping these would lower my cholesterol. They made no difference and now on statins.”
Always speak to your doctor before taking any new medication or over-the-counter tablets to ensure they suit you, especially if you are already being treated for a condition. Plant sterols are typically regarded as safe for the majority of healthy adults when consumed in the recommended amounts.
They might not be appropriate for pregnant or nursing women, children younger than five, and those with specific rare genetic disorders such as sitosterolemia.
You should not go against your doctor’s advice. If you have been prescribed statins for your condition, it is best to continue taking your medicine to help control your cholesterol.
People with high cholesterol often combine this medication with serious lifestyle changes, too. According to the NHS, people should aim for “at least 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of exercise a week” alongside eating less fatty foods, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
