Sterols and Stanols

Question 1

Sources

Answer 1

fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, cereals, legumes, vegetable oils

Question 2

Types

Answer 2

Omega 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (gamma-linoleic acid - GLA- is derived for linoleic acid) and omega 9 fatty acid (oleic acid) is present in olive oil and is not essential because the body can synthesize it

Question 3

Mechanism of Action

Answer 3

alters various steps in the absorption of cholesterol, may result in an increased excretion of cholesterol by the enterocyte back into the lumen.

Question 4

CHD protection

Answer 4

Omega 6 does have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory eicosanoids, such as prostacyclin and lipoxin. Some data suggests that higher intakes of omega 6 can be harmful

Question 5

Adverse effects

Answer 5

Minor GI effects. Plant sterols and stanols lower plasma levels of beta-carotene by 25% and vitamin E by 8%

Question 6

Drug Interactions

Answer 6

Bile acid sequestrants and additives and drugs that impair the absorption of fat and soluble nutrients, such as olestra and orlistat, have the potential to impair absorption of omega 3, 6 and 9