What are plant sterols?

Many plants include some substance known as plant sterols, phytochemical compounds found in the fatty tissues of plants. Wheat germ, sesame oil, wheat bran, and Brussels sprouts are rich in plant sterols.

When plant sterols are consumed, they compete with cholesterol for absorption in the body. However, it is difficult to consume enough of these foods on a daily basis to derive enough plant sterols to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.