Red rice yeast or RYRE is created from a substance extracted from red rice and then fermented with a yeast called Monascus Purpureus. Chinese and Asian cultures have used red rice yeast as a traditional medicine for centuries, however, it is also used as a preservative, additive and food colouring.
What is red rice yeast commonly used for?
RYRE contains monacolins, naturally occurring statin compounds such as lovastatin, sterols, isoflavones and monounsaturated fats. It’s because of these ingredients that it is associated with supporting healthy cholesterol levels.
Why don’t we sell RYRE?
There is strong study data to substantiate claims that red rice yeast can lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol. However, tests conducted across various brands reveal varying concentrations of the active monacolin compounds, in some cases by as much as 15 times different, which raises questions over safety. Since RYRE supplements do not list the amount of lovastatin’s (natural cholesterol lowering compounds), there is no indication as to their level and therefore, their efficacy. Some RYRE supplement products were also found to have high levels of citrinin acid, which may be harmful to kidney health. With common interactions with other cholesterol lowering medicines, blood pressure drugs, other herbs and supplements it is essential to approach RYRE products with caution. And to always check with your health practitioner before use.
What are the alternatives?
We have a range of suitable alternatives to RYRE, all with guaranteed levels and safety records. Take a look at our top suggestions below…
Plant Sterols are useful because they block cholesterol from being re-absorbed from the gut into the bloodstream, and any cholesterol not absorbed is simply excreted. This is why diets high in plant sterols can help to control blood cholesterol levels, and why plant sterols are now added to some specialist margarines.
Ubiquinol is produced naturally within the body, it is converted from CoQ10 into a substance which is essential for energy production and is found in every cell of the body, with the highest concentrations found in the heart. It has also been shown that cholesterol lowering drugs, called statins, reduce Co-Q10 levels in the body, so supplementing with this nutrient is a popular choice.
Final thought
Although RYRE has potential more research is needed to determine long-term safety.
Further reading… why not browse our Blog articles to find out more about how to support a healthy heart
Need FREE confidential nutrition advice? Contact our Nutrition Advice Team by clicking here.
You Might Also Like
Keri
Keri Filtness has worked in the Nutrition Industry for 19 years. She is regularly called upon for her professional comments on health and nutrition related news. Her opinions have been featured by BBC3, Prima, Vitality, The Mirror, Woman’s Own and Cycling Weekly, amongst others. She has also worked one to one with journalists, analysing their diets and health concerns and recommending changes and additions, where appropriate.
View More
