Effect of Plant Sterol Ester Capsules on Cholesterol Levels
Author Information
Author(s): Robert V Acuff, David J Cai, Zhi-Ping Dong, Doris Bell
Primary Institution: East Tennessee State University
Hypothesis
Do plant sterol esters in capsule form lower plasma cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemic subjects?
Conclusion
Plant sterol ester capsules effectively improve lipid profiles among hypercholesterolemic subjects.
Supporting Evidence
- LDL-cholesterol was significantly reduced by 7% and 4% at weeks 3 and 4.
- HDL-cholesterol increased by 9% at week 3.
- Total cholesterol showed a 5% reduction, but was not statistically significant.
- TC/HDL and LDL/HDL ratios were significantly reduced by 8% and 10% respectively.
Takeaway
Taking plant sterol capsules can help lower bad cholesterol in people with high cholesterol levels.
Methodology
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study with a 4-week placebo phase followed by a 4-week treatment phase.
Potential Biases
Potential carry-over effects from the sequential design.
Limitations
The study treatments were not randomized and lacked true baseline measurements.
Participant Demographics
16 subjects (12 female, 4 male, average age 51 years) with borderline high or elevated serum lipid parameters.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05 for LDL reduction
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website