Plant Sterols & Stanols
Cholesterol & heart healthFunction & benefits
Plant sterols and stanols have been shown to lower blood cholesterol; high cholesterol is a risk factor in the development of coronary heart disease. A daily intake of 1.5–2.4 g lowers it by 7–10% within 2–3 weeks (EFSA-authorised claim), as they compete with cholesterol for absorption in the gut.
Dosage & how to use
| Recommended dose | 1.5–3 g daily (do not exceed 3 g a day from all sources) |
| Best time to take | With the main meal that contains fat |
| Frequency | 1–2 times daily |
Best forms to choose
Plant sterol or stanol esters in capsules, or added to fortified foods.
Important warnings
Intended only for people who want to lower their cholesterol; not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women or children under 5
People taking cholesterol-lowering medication should consult their doctor before use
They may slightly reduce beta-carotene absorption; eat plenty of colourful fruit and vegetables
Drug interactions
They add to the effect of cholesterol medication (statins, ezetimibe), so consult your doctor when combining them.
Related supplements
- Red Yeast Rice (Monacolin K < 3 mg)Cholesterol & heart health
- Daily MultivitaminsGeneral health & immunity
- Omega-3 Fish OilGeneral & heart health
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)General health & bones
Scientific references
- EFSA Journal 2009;1175 (plant stanols and plant sterols and blood LDL-cholesterol)
- Ras RT et al. Br J Nutr 2014 (meta-analysis) — PMID: 24780090
Content last updated: 17 October 2026 · Based on published sources and research (EFSA / NIH / PubMed)
⚖️ Medical disclaimer: The information and data provided here are for health education and nutritional guidance only. They are not a medical diagnosis and never replace a direct consultation with your doctor or pharmacist. Always consult your doctor before starting any supplement, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding or when taking long-term medication.