Evidence supporting the use of: Sitosterol
For the body system: Prostate

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

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

Sitosterol, specifically beta-sitosterol, is a plant sterol that has been studied for its potential benefits in supporting prostate health, particularly in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Several randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials have indicated that beta-sitosterol can improve urinary symptoms and flow measures associated with BPH. A comprehensive meta-analysis published in The Lancet (1995) reviewed four randomized studies and concluded that beta-sitosterol improved urinary symptom scores and flow measures compared to placebo. The mechanism is believed to involve anti-inflammatory effects and inhibition of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme involved in prostate tissue growth, although the exact pathways remain unclear.

Despite these promising results, the studies to date have been relatively small, and there is a lack of long-term safety and efficacy data. Most clinical guidelines do not recommend beta-sitosterol as a first-line therapy, but acknowledge it may be considered as an alternative for men seeking non-pharmacological options. Overall, the evidence for sitosterol in supporting prostate health is moderate, with a reasonable scientific basis but a need for larger, rigorous trials to confirm its efficacy and safety.

More about Sitosterol
More about Prostate

Other body systems supported by Sitosterol

Arteries
Blood
Circulatory System
Heart
Prostate

Products containing Sitosterol

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.