Scientists first isolated sterols, plant fats - and their glucosides, sterolins, and other natural compounds found in fruits and vegetables, as far back as 1922. However, their remarkable health benefits were only realized and confirmed by extensive research in the last two decades.

Over 4000 published studies to date have examined phytosterols and 120 studies are double-blind, placebo-controlled human trials. These studies revealed that concentrations of sterols and sterolins offered extraordinary support to the immune system.

Sterols and sterolins are found abundantly in all plant materials and also in shellfish. Raw, unprocessed nuts and seeds and their oils are the richest source. Unfortunately, due to our standard methods of processing foods, the sterols and sterolins are destroyed. Freezing fruits and vegetables destroys the sterolins, and boiling vegetables causes the sterolins to be released into the cooking water.

Research suggests that it is the sterolins, not the sterols, which are the key to promoting a healthy inflammation and immune response. And while a good diet can provide a person with a healthful portion of phytosterols, the sterolins are much harder to come by.

According to Lorna Vanderhaege, an expert in immune health, sterols and sterolins are the preferred supplement of choice for balancing the immune system. Here is what she has to say:

"Plant sterols and sterolins enhance the ability of T-cells to divide thereby increasing the number of T-cells in the immune system arsenal. They also promote the secretion of immune protective factors. These powerful plant fats do this without enhancing the action of inflammatory agents and the production of damaging antibodies.

By reducing the production of antibodies the immune system can get back into balance and stop destroying the body's own tissues....."

- Lorna Vanderhaege, Healthy Living Guide #132, Jan/Feb 1999

Lorna R. Vanderhaege, author of Healthy Immunity: Scientifically Proven Natural Treatments for Conditions from A-Z (See all Parenting & Families Books) , is a huge advocate for using plant sterols and sterolins.

She recommends sterols and sterolins for maintaining a balanced immune system.

Various combinations of sterols and sterolins have been shown in clinical trials and anecdotal usage to provide nutritional support for joint health, neuromuscular health, endocrine system health, and enhance almost all other immune functions.

What is Autoimmune Disease?
Autoimmunity is, simply put, the process by which the immune system attacks its own healthy tissues and organs.
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Causes of Autoimmune Disease
Autoimmune diseases do not have one specific cause; rather, there seems to be a combination of factors involved.
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Symptoms of Autoimmune Disease
Although the different autoimmune diseases vary widely in terms of symptomology, the following are the most commonly experienced symptoms.
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Sterols and Sterolins
These immune supplements have been shown in clinical trials to have anecdotal usage to provide nutritional support for autoimmune diseases.
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Author's Autoimmune Disease Experience
Author shares her own personal experiences with autoimmune diseases and how she found her way back to health.
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Resources and Consultants
This page lists some autoimmune resources and consultants that may be helpful to you.
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