It's worth bearing in mind that Beta Sitosterol is about 26% soluble in fat, negligbly soluble in alcohol, and not at all soluble in water. Thus, taking it with a glass of water virtually guarantees there will be no effectiveness whatsoever. Taking it "preferably with a meal" is at best a half-hearted acknowledgement that a high quantity of fatty food must accompany the dose to result in even a moderate amount of absorption. Furthermore, a minimum of twice the recommended dose is needed. Laboratory studies validating the effectiveness of Beta Sitosterol in shrinking prostate tissues were based on 1,000 - 2,000 Mg dosages. Beta Sitoserol has been the preferred prescription medication for treating BPH in Euorpe for two decades based on similar dosages. Of course, Beta Sistosterol is not a prescription medication in the U.S., due to opposition from pharmaceutical companies pushing their own expensive drugs, which, interestingly, have been shown in laboratory studies to have identical effects to Beta Sitosterol. Worse, some medical information websites obfuscate these facts in favor of so-called "good studies" based on nothing more than survey questions answered by volunteers under uncontrolled circumstances. Some websites go so far as to erroneously assert that "surgery is the preferred treatment for enlarged prostate," despite numerous studies proving that such surgery does not prolong life nor adequately treat symptoms. Bottom line: Consider taking a maximum-strength forumlation of Beta Sitosterol two to three times a day with fat, e.g., whole milk, a fatty fish such as salmon or tuna, or peanut butter and canola oil (rich natural sources). The results might amaze you. As a pharmcologist I have no invested interest in the controversy, other than the fact that since I turned 71, I began to experience BPH symptoms. I've used prescription medications, which did have an effect on urinary symptoms used in conjunction with Saw Palmetto and Lycopene, but also produced intolerable side effects, such as occassionally collapsing when attempting to stand. As a result, I tried taking Saw Palmetto Extract only. I recently began using a pure 250 Mg Beta Sitosterol supplement, once at 2PM and twice at dinner, always with fatty food. After three days, the worst symptoms have improved noticeably, which, for me, has been a great relief.Read More Read Less