How to take red yeast rice to lower cholesterol naturally

Red yeast grown on rice (Monascus purpureus) is a traditional Chinese food that this culture has used as a medicine since ancient times. His Chinese name is hong qu and is frequently used in the East to treat indigestion, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Today its properties to reduce cholesterol are known and it is considered one of the most effective dietary supplements for protect cardiovascular health.

A total cholesterol level greater than 250 mg requires a lipoprotein analysis. Lowering LDL or “bad” cholesterol depends only in part on restricting the diet to no more than 300 mg of cholesterol per day, as well as reduce caloric intake, that fats represent less than 30% of total calories and that about two thirds are mono- or polyunsaturated fats. Age and genetics are the other factors that affect the production of cholesterol by the body itself.

Red yeast rice reduces blood fat

Interestingly, one of the natural compounds found in red yeast rice –the cholestine– it is the same active ingredient that is found in some statins, the drugs that are often prescribed to lower cholesterol. Like these medicines, red yeast rice inhibits the action of the HMG-Co reductase enzyme –responsible for the production of endogenous cholesterol–, thereby reducing hyperlipidemia with a more assimilable natural compound that does not present the side effects of statins.

In a recent study it was observed that this yeast reduces cholesterol by an average of 40 points over twelve weeks, compared to the 5 points of those who only make changes in the diet. The benefits are greatest when cholesterol is above 200, the desirable cut-off point set by the American Heart Association.

Does red yeast have side effects?

Although it is not frequent, some sensitive people may present pictures of heartburn, bloating, or dizziness when ingesting yeast, which cease when you stop taking it. There are no known drug interactions with the intake of red yeast; however, due to its similarity to statins, it is best to follow the same guidelines and not mix with niacin (vitamin B3), erythromycin, cyclosporine, fibrates, or other statins. This supplement should be avoided in pregnancy, lactation and in case of severe liver or kidney problems.

How to take red yeast rice

It is marketed in the form of capsules in pharmacies and dietetics. Capsules usually contain 600 mg of concentrate Monascus purpureus and the therapeutic dose will depend on the level of cholesterol: it can oscillate between one and four capsules a day. To avoid stomach problems it is better to take the capsules after meals or with liquids.