Red yeast rice is formed by fermenting white rice with a reddish-purple mould called monascus purpureus which gives the rice its distinct dark red colour.
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It is popularly used as a dietary supplement to lower cholesterol, but can also help reduce inflammation, metabolic syndrome, blood sugar levels, and more. Red yeast rice is used in several products to add colour and flavour.
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Red yeast rice has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries due to its health benefits. It contains a compound monacolin K which is the same active ingredient found in prescription cholesterol-lowering medications like lovastatin.
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Metabolic syndrome is a term used to describe several conditions which increase your risk for chronic conditions, such as heart disease. Research has shown that red yeast rice can help reduce LDL or “bad” cholesterol in the body.
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The side effects are said to be dependent on the amount of monacolin K in the product you ingest, and can include muscle pain, kidney and/or liver damage, nausea, fatigue, headache, and so on.
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Please note that the information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.