Evidence supporting the use of: Phytosterols (unspecified)
For the body system: Prostate

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Phytosterols are plant-derived sterols structurally similar to cholesterol. They are most renowned for their cholesterol-lowering effects, but their use in supporting prostate health, particularly in the context of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), has some scientific backing. Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have investigated phytosterols, particularly beta-sitosterol, for alleviating urinary symptoms associated with BPH. A notable meta-analysis published in the journal JAMA (1999) reviewed randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials and found that phytosterol supplementation improved urinary symptom scores and flow measures compared to placebo. The proposed mechanism is thought to involve anti-inflammatory effects and potential inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme involved in prostate enlargement.

However, while these results are promising, most studies are relatively short-term (typically less than 6 months) and often use mixed or unspecified phytosterol preparations, which can make reproducibility and standardization challenging. Guidelines from major urological organizations do not currently endorse phytosterols as a first-line therapy for BPH, but they are generally considered safe as adjunctive agents. In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting the use of phytosterols for prostate health, particularly in managing BPH symptoms, but more robust, long-term studies are needed for definitive recommendations.

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