These really didn't make much difference in my lab results. ......yet.  WATCH FOR UPDATE
I took these for several months before writing this review. I recently did some blood work and, yes, my LDL cholesterol was down a little bit, along with the total cholesterol. The trouble is, I'm not sure it was these capsules that were responsible. I eat a mostly vegetarian diet.  Very little meat, very little dairy.<br /><br />Phyto(plant)Sterols are found in plants, of course. In grains, vegetables, fruit, legumes (peanuts), nuts and seeds. I eat all that regularly.  I'm sure I get plenty of plant sterols.  My total cholesterol and LDL do need to get a little lower though. Yes, even with my vegetarian diet. It's a genetic family thing.<br /><br />I just consulted my go-to nutrition website &#34;Nutrition Facts.org&#34;  Dr. Gregor discusses actual scientific studies with regard to thousands of nutrients and medical conditions. Studies show that plant sterols do lower lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides) when taken or eaten at the appropriate amount. His video indicated that  1 gram per day should lower cholesterol about 10%. I was taking the Swanson recommended amount of two capsules to get 0.8 gram per day. As I said, I did get a small result from that.<br /><br /> Dr. Gregor's video shows clearly that when taking 2 grams per day, you get the maximum benefit of cholesterol and triglyceride lowering effect.  Over that, there is no more significant effect. I am now going to take 4 capsules per day to get 1.6 grams. This, along with my diet, should get me to 2 grams. I would not exceed the Swanson suggested dose without consulting a health professional. My personal doctor said there is no problem taking a little more, but do not go over 2 grams per day with the pills, since more doesn't help.<br /><br />By the way, the highest sources of plant sterols are in seeds and nuts. Top of the list are sesame and sunflower seeds. I just ordered a two pack of Pepperwood Tahini sesame butter from Amazon. Sesame butter with a bit of honey on toast sounds good to me!  Hey, let's talk sesame cookies too.  I will do labs again in a couple months and update this review.
Rating: 4 stars