Phytosterols are natural substances in plants that are similar to hormones or hormone precursors. When ingested these phytosterols assist in restoring the body to its optimal functioning and naturally balances the hormonal system. Phytosterols are not hormones, but are specific food for hormone production. Your body is pre-programmed to take this food and convert it into hormones as needed.

There are about 1000 plants that contain phytosterols dioscorea is the best plant source that the body can utilize. Specifically you need Dioscorea villosa (Mexican Wild Yam) and you need to have a standardized quantity of sterols with synergistic factors such as Beta Sitosterol, Amino Acids, and glyconutrients for optimal absorption and utilization of all the nutrients.

Our bodies have a mechanism for self-repair, and when given the correct nutrients and building blocks it is able to balance all of the hormones. The natural hormone precursors derived from dioscorea are easily absorbed and have the ability to support the body's production of hormones. Because phytosterols are converted by the body into what it needs, when it needs it, and in the amount it needs, they are non-toxic and do not create abnormal imbalances. They are modulators, not stimulators.

Taking DHEA, progesterone, or any other hormone individually could create an imbalance, which may result in potential health problems. Phytosterols are naturally converted to pregnenolone, which is then converted to either DHEA or progesterone. DHEA is converted to testosterone and estrogen. Progesterone is converted to aldosterone and cortisol. All 87 hormones needed by the body are created ?on demand? by similar pathways.

You don't need ?Hormone Replacement? ? you need hormone rejuvenation!

The average North American gets less than 1 mg of phytosterols in their diet per day. Cultures that have the lowest occurrence of sex gland related cancers consume 50 to 80 mg per day. Everyone, male or female, needs to take a phytosterol supplement for optimal glandular function.

I recommend that you find a product that is standardized to provide consistent levels of concentrated phytosterols. It should be combined with glyconutrients and other nutrients to make it more bioavailable (better absorbed) to the body.

For a complimentary report on phytosterols e-mail Dr. Enders at dr.dkenders@sbcglobal.net with ?phytosterols? in subject line.

Dr. David K. Enders is a 1973 graduate of the Palmer College of Chiropractic. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force as a medic before entering college. Dr. Enders has studied nutrition for 30 years and has had several articles on nutrition published in professional journals. After completing a Clinical Teaching Residency at Palmer College of Chiropractic he moved to the Chicago area, where he now provides nutritional counseling. His web site is: