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What Is Red Yeast Extract Good For?

Red yeast rice has been used in traditional Asian medicine for about 1,200 years and remains a dietary staple in some Asian countries. The extract is produced by fermenting red yeast with rice. Statins are a produced in the fermentation process.

  1. Cholesterol

    • Clinical studies have shown red yeast rice to lower overall cholesterol including LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while raising HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

    Triglycerides

    • Studies cited on MedicineNet.com report that triglycerides, unhealthy fats, can also be lowered with the use of red yeast rice.

    Heart Health

    • A study at the Chinese Academy of Medical Science in Bejing suggests that red yeast rice reduces lipid levels and inflammation in patients with coronary disease.

    Decreased Muscle Pain

    • Natural Standard cites a study that patients who suffered muscle pain while on prescription cholesterol medication may experience less pain when using red yeast rice instead.

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