Cholesterol-Lowering Activity of Plant Sterol-Egg Yolk Lipoprotein Complex in Rats

Abstract

Free plant sterols cannot be dissolved in oil or water. Using free plant sterols and egg yolks, we developed a plant sterol-egg yolk lipoprotein complex (PSY) that can be dispersed in water and considered suitable for use in processed foods. The cholesterol-lowering activity of PSY was equal to that of free plant sterols and plant sterol esters. Consumption of a freeze-dried PSY-containing omelet reduced serum and hepatic cholesterol concentrations. The results suggest that PSY has cholesterol-lowering activity equivalent to that of free plant sterols and plant sterol esters. Moreover, the cholesterol-lowering activity of PSY was maintained in processed foods.

Tangible Health Benefits of Phytosterol Functional Foods

“…Apparently, PSY is readily dispersible in water due to the emulsifying properties of egg phospholipids, and suitable for use in processed foods. The cholesterol-lowering properties of PSY are comparable with those of free phytosterols and esters (Matsuoka et al 2008).…”