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HEART & CIRCULATION

Red Yeast Rice

Cholesterol · cardiovascular

VERY STRONG EVIDENCEVEGANREAD THE RESEARCH
Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 2 Jun 2026
Last reviewed: May 30, 2026
QUICK ANSWER

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.

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.

WHY IT MATTERS

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

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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Best for your goal

Interactions

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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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