High cholesterol is something that affects many people in the U.S. and can cause serious health problems. Lowering cholesterol is very important, and more and more people are looking for ways to naturally lower their cholesterol. For some, diet and exercise just aren’t enough to lower their cholesterol, often due to their family genetics.

Red Yeast Rice: A Natural Supplement

Red yeast rice a product extracted from rice fermented with a type of yeast called manascus purpureus. It contains ingredients known to lower cholesterol levels, including monacolins, sterols, isoflavones and monounsaturated fats (good fats). It has been used in Asia for centuries as a natural medicine.

How Do I Take Red Yeast Rice?

Red yeast rice is available as a drug and a supplement. A drug is something that is regulated by the FDA and produced and owned by pharmaceutical companies while supplements can be made by more companies and usually contain natural ingredients rather than drug combinations. A mere gram or two per day of red yeast rice can significantly lower cholesterol levels. However studies vary on the effects of this product.

The FDA took some supplements off the shelf in the past 8 years because they contained compounds already approved as a drug and therefore owned by the company who produced the drug. Over the counter products now contain an ingredient similar to red yeast rice, but not identical. Caution should be used when taking these products.

Are There Side Effects?

There are some mild side effects to taking red yeast rice. These include headache, heartburn and upset stomach. Some forms of the red yeast rice drug have been shown to cause muscle and liver problems and may interact with other medications. Use care when taking red yeast rice as a supplement and consider talking to a professional. As with any supplement or drug, there are potential health risks, drug interactions and side effects that you should know about.

When working to lower your cholesterol, don’t forget the importance of a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise. A diet rich in soluble fiber, found in oatmeal and bran, as well as fruits and vegetables over time can reduce cholesterol levels. Regular exercise is not only good for you, but exercise and weight loss will also lower your body’s cholesterol levels.

http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/red-yeast-rice