Red Yeast Rice

Red yeast rice is derived from fermentation of rice with red yeast (monascus purpureus). It has been used traditionally for centuries in foods and medication. It is indicated for general health maintenance, but it's most effective as a cholesterol lowering supplement.

About 80% of cholesterol in the body is made in the liver, typically at night when we are sleeping. Red yeast rice contains a naturally occurring substance called monacolin K which inhibit the enzyme activity of hmg-coa reductase. Hmg-CoA reductase is responsible for cholesterol production in our bodies, so by inhibiting its activity, red yeast rice can help reduce cholesterol production in the body.

Studies have shown that the effect of red yeast rice is almost as strong as cholesterol-lowering medications. 

For this reason, if you are on a cholesterol-lowering medication such as Lipitor or Crestor, you are not recommended to take this supplement.