Sterol esters, which interfere with cholesterol absorption in the body, can lower concentrations of low-density lipoprotein, the bad cholesterol, when eaten regularly in a margarine.

Maki, K.C., et al. 1999. Lipid responses to plant sterol-enriched reduced-fat spreads incorporated into a step 1 diet. American Heart Association 72^nd Scientific Sessions. November. Atlanta.

Raloff, J. 1998. Cholesterol-busting products provoke FDA. Science News 154(Nov. 14):311.

Kevin C. Maki
Chicago Center for Clinical Research
515 North State Street
Suite 2700
Chicago, IL 60610

From Science News, Vol. 156, No. 22, November 27, 1999, p. 347. Copyright © 1999, Science Service.