Evidence supporting the use of: Beta Sitosterol
For the health condition: Prostatitis
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Evidence for Beta Sitosterol in Prostatitis
Beta sitosterol is a plant-derived phytosterol commonly found in supplements marketed for prostate health. Its principal use and the bulk of scientific research focus on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), where several randomized controlled trials have shown modest improvements in urinary symptoms and flow measures. However, for prostatitis specifically—which is inflammation of the prostate, often due to infection or chronic pelvic pain—the evidence is considerably weaker.
There are no large, high-quality clinical trials directly investigating beta sitosterol for the treatment or support of prostatitis. Some of the justification for its use in prostatitis is extrapolated from its anti-inflammatory effects observed in laboratory studies, as well as its benefit in BPH symptoms, which can overlap with those of prostatitis. Additionally, some multi-ingredient supplements for prostate health include beta sitosterol, but these rarely isolate its effects.
In summary, while beta sitosterol has demonstrated some benefit in BPH, the scientific evidence specifically supporting its use in prostatitis is limited and indirect. Most clinical guidelines do not endorse its use for prostatitis, and its utility in this context remains uncertain pending further research.
Other health conditions supported by Beta Sitosterol
Benign Prostate HyperplasiaCholesterol (high)
Diabetes
Inflammation
Metabolic Syndrome
Prostatitis