Phytosterols are plant-derived compounds structurally similar to cholesterol, which can help lower cholesterol levels by competing with cholesterol for absorption in the digestive system. They are found in various plant-based foods and are often added to products like margarine and dairy substitutes to enhance their cholesterol-lowering effects.

Phytosterols

Plant-derived compounds

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body, essential for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods. While necessary for health, high levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke due to the buildup of plaques in arteries.

Cholesterol

Cholesterol levels are crucial indicators of cardiovascular health, with high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Maintaining a balance between LDL and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol through diet, exercise, and sometimes medication is essential for reducing cardiovascular risk.

Cholesterol Levels

The digestive system is a complex network of organs responsible for breaking down food into nutrients, which the body uses for energy, growth, and cell repair. It involves both mechanical and chemical processes, beginning in the mouth and ending in the small intestine, with waste products being expelled through the large intestine.

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