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Natural Compound Beta Sitosterol

Beta sitosterol is mainly studied for its cholesterol lowering properties but many studies also find that the phytochemical may help to prevent prostate cancer.

A Japanese study led by Imanaka demonstrated that the oral intake of beta sitosterol, encapsulated in a liposome, was able to prevent tumor metastasis in rats, although the phytochemical was not absorbed in the serum. The researchers believed that beta-sitosterol works by stimulating the gut immune surveillance systems, as indicated by an increase in natural killer cell activity and production of immune response cytokines. Park and co workers concluded in their study that "beta sitosterol potently induces apoptosis in leukemia cells that beta sitosterol induced apoptosis is related to the selective activation of caspase 3 and induction of Bax/Bcl 2 ratio." Beta sitosterol induced apoptosis in the leukemia cells in a dose dependent manner.

Beta sitosterol is a plant sterol found in various foods and some dietary supplements and functional foods, such as margarines or spreads. It is primarily used for lowering cholesterol and relieving symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Beta sitosterol works by decreasing the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine and reducing the amount of DHT in the body. Potential side effects include nausea, gas, and constipation.

Melatonin May Benefit The Body In More Ways Than Just Sleep

Melatonin is a hormone produced in humans by the pineal gland. This hormone is a regulatory hormone that can help other body parts (organs) function properly. Research suggests that low levels of melatonin have been associated with heart disease.

The link to heart disease is not clear whether melatonin levels are low in response to having heart disease or if low levels of melatonin cause people to develop this condition. Patients with heart disease have been reported to have low melatonin levels, but whether this abnormality increases the risk of heart disease or whether heart disease leads to the low melatonin level is not yet known. Research has discovered other disease as well that may be linked.

Melatonin levels may play a role in the symptoms of anorexia. Some researchers speculate that low melatonin levels in people with anorexia may indicate who is likely to benefit from antidepressant medications (a treatment often used for eating disorders). Both anorexia and bulimia have been associated to low levels of melatonin in the blood stream.

Melatonin supplements may benefit menopausal women by promoting and sustaining sleep. Melatonin should be used with caution in people with depression and should be appropriately timed doctor prescribed medications so that there are no complications between the two. Melatonin is available as tablets, capsules, cream, and lozenges that dissolve under the tongue. Melatonin can cause drowsiness if taken during the day so avoid taking this supplement with out at least 6 hours of rest available.