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What Are the Benefits of Red Yeast Rice & Coq10?

CoQ10, also referred to as coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinone, is a natural substance made by the human body, although dietary supplements are also available. Red yeast rice is a culture of the yeast Monascus Purpureus grown on rice and either eaten as part of the diet or dried and prepared as a supplement. Both of these supplements can have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health in people with certain conditions, and people with other health concerns might receive benefits from these supplements as well.

  1. Cardiovascular Health

    • Red yeast rice is a dietary supplement marketed as a natural way to lower cholesterol. According to the Mayo Clinic, clinical studies have shown that red yeast rice can lower the low density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad" cholesterol) and triglyceride levels, two types of cholesterol that comprise total cholesterol. Because high cholesterol is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, using red yeast rice might help prevent development of this risk factor. CoQ10 can help lower high systolic blood pressure, and might also lower diastolic blood pressure; high blood pressure is a known risk factor for cardiovascular problems including stroke and heart attack. Patients with pain that results from angina might benefit from decreased levels of pain while taking CoQ10. Other cardiovascular conditions, including mitral valve prolapse, congestive heart failure and dilated or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy might also benefit from supplement of CoQ10.

    Overall Health

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, red yeast rice may benefit people with diabetes, especially regarding keeping blood sugar balanced and under control; however, current scientific evidence of this benefit is unclear. People with age-related macular degeneration might benefit from CoQ10 supplements, although according to the Mayo Clinic, more research is needed to confirm the benefits of CoQ10 for this condition. Similarly, patients might benefit from a slow down in the progression of Alzheimer's disease by taking supplements of CoQ10, although again, more research is needed to verify the effectiveness of CoQ10 as a potential treatment. Other chronic conditions that might benefit from supplements of CoQ10 include chronic fatigue syndrome, asthma, muscular dystrophy and Parkinson's Disease.

    Traditional Medicine

    • Traditional Chinese medicine uses red yeast rice to treat mild stomach problems such as indigestion or diarrhea, and for overall stomach health. In addition, red yeast rice is thought by traditional medicine practitioners to promote better circulation of the blood. Benefits of supplements of CoQ10 in traditional medicine include reduced hair loss and treatments for infertility and insomnia. The supplement is also believed by traditional medicine practitioners to extend the length of life and improve cognitive functions. In addition, medical problems such as hepatitis, breathing problems, psychiatric disorders and muscle disorders might benefit from dietary supplements of CoQ10.

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