Phytosterols In Canola Lower Cholesterol

MONTREAL--Phytosterols delivered in a functional matrix lower cholesterol, according to a study published in Metabolism(55, 3:391-5, 2006).

Researchers administered phytosterol-fortified, medium chain triglyceride-rich, high-oleic canola (from Bunge Ltd.) and an olive oil control to 23 overweight, hyperlipidemic men in a randomized, crossover design consisting of two six-week periods. Fasted plasma samples were collected on the first and last two days of each study period. Body weight decreased by 1.68 ± 0.47 kg and 1.22 ± 0.35 kg in the canola and olive oil phases, respectively. Total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) were lower in the canola oil phase than in the olive oil phase. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) levels did not change during either treatment. Both phases showed equal reductions in serum triacylglycerol end points.

The researchers concluded the results indicate phytosterols mixed within a medium-chain triglyceride- and high-oleic canola-rich matrix lower plasma LDL, without significantly changing HDL concentrations, in hyperlipidemic, overweight men, and may therefore decrease the risk of cardiovascular events.