Red Yeast Rice

Cholesterol is a critical molecue in the body. Its importance has been discussed in previous blog posts. But there may be a point where LDL levels are too high, especially in patients with a history of coronary artery disease such as a heart attack, stent, or bypass procedure.

RYR is a product of rice fermented with a yeast called Monascus purpureus, giving the supplement a bright reddish purple color.

Red yeast rice is an option in those folks at high risk AND with LDL particles above 2000 while on other supplements like berberine. It appears to be well tolerated.

Here are some of the proven benefits:

1)    Lowers LDL (up to 30%)

2)    Lowers hs-crp (a marker of inflammation)

3)    Decreases leptin

4)    Raises adiponectin

5)    Appears to be safe in people with statin intolerance

6)    Lowers Lp(a)

7)    Lowers heart attack risk in those with a previous heart attack

Look for a product that is citrinin free. Citrinin is a toxin found in yeast that can lead to kidney damage.

Dosing can range from 1200mg to 2400mg taken at bedtime.

We recommend CoQ10 as ubiquinol 100mg 2x per day if you take RYR.

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