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Red Yeast Rice

Cholesterol · cardiovascular

Very strong evidenceVegan104 studies on PubMedRead the research
Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 30 May 2026
Last reviewed: May 30, 2026

Red Yeast Rice: Cholesterol · cardiovascular. Contains naturally occurring monacolin K (the active compound in lovastatin). Strong cholesterol-lowering evidence. Standard dose 1200 mg, taken in the evening, about $26/month. Evidence rating: very strong evidence.

Where to buy

Nature's Plus Red Yeast Rice 600mg
Recommended
Nature's Plus, Red Yeast Rice
1200 mg · Evening · ~$26/month

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What is Red Yeast Rice?

Red yeast rice (RYR) is rice fermented with the Monascus purpureus mold, traditionally used in Chinese cuisine and medicine. The fermentation produces monacolin K, chemically identical to the prescription statin lovastatin, at concentrations of roughly 5-10 mg per gram of extract. Clinical trials demonstrate significant LDL-cholesterol reductions of 15-25%. Because RYR is essentially a low-dose statin, it carries the same precautions: avoid in pregnancy, alongside prescription statins, or with grapefruit juice. Consider co-supplementing with CoQ10 for muscle support. Always pair with regular liver enzyme monitoring.

Contains naturally occurring monacolin K (the active compound in lovastatin). Strong cholesterol-lowering evidence.

Natural food sources

Where possible, get Red Yeast Rice from whole foods first. Common dietary sources include:

Red yeast rice (culinary)Red fermented bean curd

Best for your goal

Interactions

Related biomarkers

Other heart & circulation

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Heart function · blood pressure
Aged Garlic Extract (Kyolic)
Cardiovascular · cholesterol · blood pressure
Nattokinase (NSK-SD)
Circulation · fibrin breakdown · clot prevention
Citrus Bergamot (BPF)
Cholesterol · cardiometabolic · liver

Common questions

What is Red Yeast Rice?
Red yeast rice (RYR) is rice fermented with the Monascus purpureus mold, traditionally used in Chinese cuisine and medicine. The fermentation produces monacolin K, chemically identical to the prescription statin lovastatin, at concentrations of roughly 5-10 mg per gram of extract. Clinical trials demonstrate significant LDL-cholesterol reductions of 15-25%. Because RYR is essentially a low-dose statin, it carries the same precautions: avoid in pregnancy, alongside prescription statins, or with grapefruit juice. Consider co-supplementing with CoQ10 for muscle support. Always pair with regular liver enzyme monitoring.
What is Red Yeast Rice used for?
Cholesterol · cardiovascular. Contains naturally occurring monacolin K (the active compound in lovastatin). Strong cholesterol-lowering evidence.
What is the standard dose of Red Yeast Rice?
1200 mg, typically taken in the evening. Approximate cost is $26 per month.
Who should avoid Red Yeast Rice?
Use extra caution, and speak to a clinician first, if you are pregnant or nursing, statin-use.
How strong is the evidence for Red Yeast Rice?
Very strong evidence for its primary uses. See the full study list on the research page.

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