Did you know that in China, rice has been fermented using the yeast Monascus purpureus for over 2,000 years? This gives it its characteristic deep red colour and leads to the formation of bioactive compounds – monacolins – including Monacolin K. In Asian countries, red yeast rice is an important part of the daily diet, and in Chinese medicine it is used to improve digestion, promote blood circulation and strengthen the heart. But in the West, too, we are increasingly using it as a dietary supplement.
What does red yeast rice do for your health?
But what exactly does red yeast rice do for your health? Well, monacolin K helps to lower cholesterol levels. It works in the same way as certain cholesterol-lowering medicines: statins. It inhibits HMG-CoA, the enzyme involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver. But please note: taking Monacolin K also reduces the body’s own production of co-enzyme Q10, which in turn stores and releases energy in muscle tissue. It is therefore advisable to take Q10 supplements to help reduce the incidence of side effects such as fatigue and muscle discomfort.
Red yeast rice therefore naturally helps to maintain normal blood cholesterol levels. The maximum daily dose is set at 2.99 mg. We supply red yeast rice in both capsules and tablets. In our supplements, we generally combine red yeast rice with co-enzyme Q10 and can supply these from stock.
