The role of gut microbiota in the LDL cholesterol-lowering effect of plant sterol esters

This is a study to learn how specific plant sterol supplements function within the gastrointestinal tract to lower plasma low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentrations. Participants will be required to consume chocolate supplements containing plant sterols or a placebo three times a day for eight weeks throughout of the 12-week study period. Participants will be required to complete seven one-hour visits to Rush University Medical Center throughout the study. Six blood draws will be performed and four fecal samples will be obtained. In addition, four food records will be completed. Participants will be paid for their participation.

You may be eligible for this study if you:

• You have fasting plasma LDL cholesterol from 100-190 mg/dL

• You are not taking cholesterol-lowering medication

• You are free of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes 

This is a partial list of eligibility criteria. To determine if you are eligible to participate, please call the contact phone number provided. If you choose to respond by e-mail, please refer to the title of the study in your correspondence.