Which is better to lower cholesterol niacin or red yeast rice?

Niacin is very effective at lowering LDL, beyond its ability to raise high-density lipoprotein and shift LDL particle size to a less atherogenic type. When statins cannot be tolerated at all, red yeast rice can be used if proper formulations of the product are obtained.

Does red yeast rice reduce plaque?

Compared with the model group, treatment with RYR decreased the levels of Hs-CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α (P<0.01). RYR also reduced the protein levels of NF-κB and MMP-9 of the aorta. Conclusions: RYR has the anti-atherosclerotic and stabilizing unstable plaque effects.

Is red yeast rice good for high cholesterol?

Research on red yeast rice use for specific conditions shows: High cholesterol (hyperlipidemia). Research shows that red yeast rice containing considerable amounts of monacolin K can lower your total blood cholesterol level, your low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad”) cholesterol level and your triglyceride level.

Can red yeast rice damage the liver?

Red yeast rice might contain monacolin K, which can cause liver damage in some people. Taking red yeast rice with these types of drugs, herbs and supplements could increase the risk of liver damage.

Can red yeast rice really help improve cholesterol levels?

Studies have shown that certain red yeast rice products that contain statin can significantly lower levels of total cholesterol and specifically LDL, or “bad” cholesterol. One showed that taking 2.4 grams per day reduced LDL levels by 22% and total cholesterol by 16% in 12 weeks.

What is the recommended dosage for red yeast rice?

Summary Red yeast rice is widely available in both capsule and tablet form. It’s been studied in doses ranging from 200–4,800 mg, but most supplements recommend 1,200–2,400 mg daily for best results.

What are the health benefits of red rice yeast?

There are many benefits to eating red yeast rice, including its ability to lower cholesterol, work as an agent, stimulate bone growth, and prevent inflammation, among others.

Why is red yeast rice so controversial?

Red yeast rice is controversial for a couple of reasons. The first is that it is very effective at lowering cholesterol. It is effective because it contains compounds similar to statin drugs and it lowers cholesterol via the same metabolic pathway. This makes it very close to a drug in the mind of the FDA.