Benecol is a substance made by mixing plant stanols with extracts of rapeseed oil. This combination can be mixed into foods without changing the taste and it is known to lower cholesterol levels.

  • Benecol is a substance made by mixing plant stanols with extracts of rapeseed oil.
  • This combination can be mixed into foods without changing the taste and it is known to lower cholesterol levels.
1

Effects

Since plant stanol esters are not absorbed by the body, but are excreted, they are considered extremely safe and have not exhibited any side effects.

2

Significance

Benecol works in the digestive tract to block the absorption of cholesterol. This lowers the total cholesterol level as well as the bad cholesterol level.

3

Time Frame

Benecol can begin working to lower cholesterol in as little as two weeks. Users can have a simple blood test performed to see if cholesterol levels have lowered.

4

Prevention/Solution

Statins are prescription medications that prevent the liver from making cholesterol and these can be taken in conjunction with benecol.

5

Fun Fact

A serving of benecol is considered 1 tablespoon and the maximum benefit is gained from consuming 6 tablespoons per day. No additional cholesterol lowering benefit will be realised past this number of servings.