What is Red Yeast Rice?
Red yeast rice is produced by fermenting rice with different types of yeast. It has been used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine for millennia due to its health-promoting qualities and is now widely used as a supplement due to its proven medicinal properties. One of its primary uses is to lower cholesterol. Red yeast rice contains active ingredients similar to prescription drugs called ‘Statins’ that are prescribed by doctors to lower cholesterol and heart disease risk. Both red yeast rice and statins work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG Co-A, which reduces the production of cholesterol in the body. Red yeast rice also contains monacolin K, the same active ingredient found in prescription cholesterol-lowering medications like lovastatin. Therefore it is known to be effective in the same way as statins and a popular choice for those seeking to lower their cholesterol.
However, it is important to keep in mind that CoQ10, vitamin D, and selenoproteins, including the powerful antioxidant Glutathione Peroxidase, all use the same pathway as red yeast rice. Therefore, it’s recommended to monitor levels of vitamin D and CoQ10 closely when taking red yeast rice, as is also advised for statin use.
Red yeast rice also has an anti-inflammatory effect due to its action against oxidative stress, which can cause damage to the cells of the body. Note that oxidative stress is a leading cause of long-term inflammation in the body.
Precautions prior to use:
Red yeast rice that is not fermented correctly may contain citrinin, a poison that can cause kidney damage. Therefore, always source your products from a trusted brand. Speak to your local natural healthcare shop or a qualified nutritionist for more details.
Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding:
Studies have shown that certain chemicals in red yeast rice can cause birth defects in animals, but there is not enough evidence to confirm its safety for human use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid using red yeast rice supplements while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not use in cases of liver disease:
Red yeast rice contains chemicals that are similar to the statin drug lovastatin, which can cause liver damage. Research suggests that red yeast rice may also cause liver damage to the same extent as lovastatin. As a result, people with liver disease should avoid using red yeast rice.
Interactions with Red Yeast Rice:
Red yeast rice can interact with various medications and substances in the following ways:
- If combined with statin medications, red yeast rice may have an additive effect and increase the risk of adverse effects.
- Alcohol consumption should be avoided while using red yeast rice.
- Red yeast rice may interact with immunosuppressant medications like Cyclosporine.
- It can also interact with drugs that alter blood lipid levels such as Gemfibrozil or Statin medications.
- Additionally, medications that decrease the breakdown of other medications in the liver, known as Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibitors, may interact with red yeast rice. Consult your prescribing doctor for more information on these interactions.
Sensible Car Finance is a broker service offering advice on the best car finance package for you.
Huffpost Health Blog 