cholesterol and lipids

Question
How safe is red yeast rice and does it lower L
LDL and overall cholestorol, how long does it take. How can I find a reputable manufacturer who is honest about the non-contaminaed ingredients?

Answer
Red yeast rice is basically a statin and works the same way that prescription statin meds do.  Because of that and because it is not regulated at all by the FDA many of these products have been pulled from the market.  I do not recommend it.  There are too many inconsistencies that may be associated with the preparation of any brand of the product in accordance with strengths and dosaging.  I would be worried about the adverse effects it could have especially in the long term.  I would highly suggest you talk to your doctor if you plan on using something like this.  You may be better off with just a prescription medication that is actually regulated and is much, much safer ALONG WITH a healthy diet, exercise, etc...

Here are a few articles I found:
http://heartdisease.about.com/cs/cholesterol/a/Nrxcol_rry.htm

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=14999&page=2#precautio...

http://health.yahoo.com/topic/cholesterol/medications/drug/healthwise/d04426a1

Kimberly A. Tessmer, RD LD
www.Nutrifocus.net

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