subject: Red Yeast Rice [print this page] Red Yeast Rice (RYR) is the product resulting from the fermentation of rice with yeast ( Monascus purpureus ) under carefully controlled conditions. It is found in the staple diet of some Asian countries like China. It contains certain compounds called Monacolins, which are known to restrict cholesterol synthesis. One of these is Monacolin K, also known as Mevinolin or Lovastatin with the same composition as Mevacor, a well-known cholesterol lowering drug and therefore, RYR can be used to decrease cholesterol synthesis in a natural and safe way.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood and in every cell of our body. It helps in synthesis of the cell walls and certain hormones. It is transported using lipoproteins. While one should have cholesterol, too much of low density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad" cholesterol) leads to build up of cholesterol along the inner wall of the arteries leading to blockages. High-density cholesterol (HDL or "good" cholesterol) on the other hand, carries the cholesterol from the arteries into the liver.
The use of RYR was first documented in the Tang Dynasty in China in 800 A.D. It was suggested as an aid for mild gastric problems. Since 1970s it has been tested and shown that red yeast rice lowers total cholesterol in the blood as well as LDL and triglyceride levels.
How does it work?
Carefully fermented rice contains high amounts of Lovastatin, commonly known as a statin. These work by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme responsible for controlling the rate of production of cholesterol in the liver. RYR may also contain sterols such as beta-sitosterol which help in lowering cholesterol. However, the major contribution of red rice yeast is due to the statin, a prescription medicine and therefore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved of it being sold as a drug instead of a "dietary supplement". In order to keep in line with the FDA guidelines, most of the red yeast rice sold as supplements have very little content of Lovastatin and may not lower cholesterol to that extent.
Dosage
As mentioned earlier, red yeast rice is a staple diet in many Asian countries where the average consumption is found to be 14- 55 g/day. In a capsule form, an adult can take 1000 mg twice a day. It is not recommended for childen below 18 years.
Cholesterol is known as a silent killer and is a forerunner for many other diseases including cardiac arrest. Keeping cholesterol levels at a minimum is therefore a health necessity. Studies have shown that of all the naturally occuring sustances known for reduction in cholesterol levels, red yeast rice has been the most effective. This means that small doses of it in your diet are enough to keep your cholesterol within limits. However, like all herbs and natural remedies, it is best taken supplemented with other natural products to ensure a holistic well being.
