Healthy Bits · Nutrition & wellness
Red yeast rice
Red yeast rice is rice fermented with a red mold called Monascus purpureus. It has been used in traditional Chinese cooking and medicine for centuries.
It gets attention because it naturally contains monacolin K, a compound chemically identical to lovastatin, a prescription cholesterol medication. Research suggests red yeast rice may support healthy cholesterol levels, but supplements vary widely in how much monacolin they contain, and some have been found to contain citrinin, a contaminant that can harm the kidneys.
Because it acts like a statin, it can carry similar side effects, such as muscle aches, and it shouldn't be combined with cholesterol-lowering medication. If you're curious about it, check with your doctor or practitioner first, and choose a brand that is third-party tested for purity.
- supplements
- heart health
Healthy Bits are for general education and aren’t medical advice. Check with your doctor or healthcare provider before making changes, especially if you’re pregnant or nursing, take medication, or are managing a health condition.