The red yeast rice extract is one of the more popular natural supplements that people take to help to reduce cholesterol levels. Its popularity is based on its effectiveness and the great results that people state that they receive from taking these tablets.
Red rice yeast (Monascus purpureus) contains naturally occurring statins, the same that can be found in cholesterol-lowering prescription medication. Many people opt to take the red yeast rice supplements as the side effects are not as serious compared to the statin medications. This is mainly due to the extract delivering a mix of compounds as opposed to one single batch.
To answer the question above how long red yeast rice should be taken to lower cholesterol, the answer is for an indefinite period. This is due to the fact that when people stop taking these supplements, there are cholesterol levels slowly increase. Aside from taking the tablets, you will also need to have your triglyceride and cholesterol levels checked periodically by your doctor. This would be similar to taking the statin medications to help lower your high cholesterol levels. If you have high cholesterol levels and you are taking the drugs are supplements, they will have to be done for an indefinite period. You should also be aware that the taking of red yeast rice or statin drugs will stop the body from naturally synthesizing coenzyme Q10. Coenzyme Q10 is needed by the body and the heart to keep healthy. If you are taking any drugs or extracts to treat high cholesterol, be sure to take 90-120mg daily dosage of coenzyme Q10.
Aside from taking red yeast rice to help control your cholesterol levels, it is also good to take other measure.
Diet – having a good and healthy diet is very important if you want to reduce your cholesterol.
Exercise – This should not be thought of as insignificant. 30 minutes a day of exercise is important in not only keeping healthy, but also in cholesterol control.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids – These acids care helpful.
Reduce Saturated Fat Intake – This is one of the major causes of high cholesterol and greatly reducing it will have a big effect on your cholesterol levels.
Eat Healthy – Foods such as oat, fiber and bran are all important.