This is an article about Red yeast rice brands to avoid. We collected a lot of information from various sources and got 10 brands that have negative responses from consumers.
In recent years, red yeast rice has gained popularity as a natural supplement for lowering cholesterol levels and improving cardiovascular health.
Be cautious when choosing a product to ensure that you are getting a high-quality, safe product. Not all red yeast rice brands are equal, there are some red yeast rice brands to avoid.
Red Yeast Rice Brands To Avoid
There are several reasons to be cautious when choosing red yeast rice supplements.
Many brands do not provide clear information about the specific herbs used or the amount of Monacolin K included. It makes difficult to determine their effectiveness at controlling cholesterol levels.
Without this information, it is also hard to know if the products may contain contaminants such as citrinin. Citrinin is a toxic byproduct of the fermentation process that can cause kidney damage in animals and may be harmful to humans.
Additionally, some users have reported experiencing side effects after using these brands, leading to negative reviews.
So, it is important to choose a reputable brand and to carefully read the label to ensure that you are getting a safe and effective product with no potentially harmful ingredients.
Spring Valley, Only Natural, Mason Natural, Nature’s Plus, Swanson, Sundance, Solaray, 21th Century, Now Foods, and Natures Aid are Red Yeast Rice Brands To Avoid.
Spring Valley Red Yeast Rice
This red yeast rice product comes in a pack with 120 capsules, each containing 600 mg. The recommended serving size is 2 capsules, and the product does not contain yeast, gluten, or wheat.
However, it is unclear what specific herbs the product contains that may help lower cholesterol.
Some users have reported side effects such as stomach discomfort and headaches after taking the supplements. Additionally, some people who take the supplements have experienced vision issues and a lack of energy.
There is also uncertainty about whether the product actually contains Monacolin K, despite claiming to do so.
Only Natural Red Yeast Rice Plus
The manufacturers claim that they use natural ingredients. But, it is unclear which specific herbs they use and the exact amount of Monacolin K they include in the supplements.
Based on some reviews, these supplements do not appear to effectively lower or control cholesterol levels.
Additionally, some consumers have reported experiencing rash developments. They also experience skin allergies after using these supplements, leading to concerns about their safety.
Mason Natural Red Yeast Rice
The brand claims to use natural herbs in its capsules but does not specify which herbs they use. The ingredients listed on the label include silicon dioxide, gelatin, and vegetable magnesium stearate. However, there is no clear indication that the product contains Monacolin K.
Some customers have reported that the product is not effective, and in some cases, cholesterol levels have even increased after using the supplement.
Additionally, some consumers have experienced skin allergies. They also have found the size of the gel capsules to be too large and difficult to swallow.
Nature’s Plus Herbal Actives Red Yeast Rice Supplement
The ingredients in the supplements are not clearly listed, and it is not specified whether Monacolin K is used. If it is, how much is included in each capsule.
The label only indicates that each capsule contains 600mg of red yeast rice. It is insufficient transparency according to the FDA.
The capsules are also large and difficult to swallow. Some customers reporting discomfort, pain, nausea, and other unpleasant side effects after taking them.
These issues have contributed to negative reviews and a low rating of 4.00 out of 5.00 on some online stores.
Swanson Red Yeast Rice
Swanson red yeast rice supplement supports cardiovascular health and healthy lipid levels in the blood by helping to bring cholesterol levels to the normal range.
However, instead of using Monacolin K, the supplement contains lovastatin. The lovastatin can be dangerous because it can cause muscle breakdown and increase the risk of kidney failure.
The FDA has warned against this product because it is marketed as containing red yeast rice but actually contains lovastatin. This is why we include this brand of red yeast rice brands to avoid.
Additionally, the presence of lovastatin in this supplement can cause negative interactions when taken with certain antibiotics, medications for fungal infections, antidepressants, medications for infections, and other cholesterol-lowering medications.
Sundance Red Yeast Rice Capsule Supplements
This brand sells red yeast rice in capsule form and claims to use high-quality herbs that help lower cholesterol but does not specify which herbs they use. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to determine if the product contains any allergens.
The label only indicates that each capsule contains 600mg of red yeast rice, with no mention of Monacolin K.
The product also has received a poor rating on major online platforms. Also, further investigation revealed undisclosed reasons for the negative reviews.
Solaray Red Yeast Rice
The Solaray red yeast rice brand markets a dietary supplement that contains 120 capsules. The packaging claims that the supplement is free of impurities, contaminants, and harmful substances such as bacteria, pesticides, heavy metals, citrinin, and radiation.
The brand also states that the capsules have been tested for potency, identity, and purity in a laboratory. However, the Food Development Authority has not confirmed these claims.
Some consumers have reported experiencing stomach problems, pain in the lower body, particularly the legs and knee joints, and headaches after taking the supplement. Those ae the reasons why we include this brand of red yeast rice brands to avoid.
The high number of reported adverse effects raises concerns about the product’s safety.
21st Century Red Yeast Rice
This red yeast rice brand comes in a bottle containing 150 capsules. However, it is not clear if the brand has been verified or analyzed by the FDA, or if there is any certification that verifies its authenticity.
In addition, there is no information available about any testing that has been done to ensure the purity of the supplements.
According to available reviews, the effectiveness of the product in lowering cholesterol is also in question.
Now Foods Red Yeast Rice
This brand of red yeast rice comes in a package of 60 capsules, each containing about 1.2 grams. It contains cellulose and silica as ingredients. This brand does not contain citrinin, which is an important factor to consider.
However, there have been reports of digestive issues such as loose stools and foul smelling stools from consuming this supplement. There is a lack of clear evidence that this brand effectively lowers cholesterol levels. This is the reason why we have listed Now Foods of red yeast rice brands to avoid.
Natures Aid
This dietary supplement comes in 30 capsules and is designed to maintain cholesterol levels. The capsules contain 10 mg of Monacolin K, cellulose, silicon dioxide, and magnesium stearate.
It is suitable for vegans and does not contain dairy, gluten, GMOs, artificial colors, added flavors, corn, wheat, starch, salt, sugar, soy, nuts, or lactose.
However, we put Natural Aid in the red yeast rice brands to avoid because of several reasons. There are no user reviews available for this brand. It means difficult to assess its effectiveness or potential risks. The brand’s efficacy also cannot be verified.
Recommended Reputable Red Yeast Rice Brands
There are several reputable red yeast rice brands recommended by experts:
Arazo Nutrition
Arazo Nutrition red yeast rice is highly regarded due to its potency and purity. Several clinical trials have proven that it can lower cholesterol. A meta-analysis of 30 randomized controlled trials found that it also decreases insulin resistance and has other positive effects on cholesterol.
Each capsule contains 600mg of red yeast rice, which is the recommended dosage for optimal results. The product contains 41 different ingredients and is formulated by doctors. ConsumerLab tested it and found 6.44 mg of Lovastatin as of 2018.
On Amazon, Arazo Nutrition has a rating of 4.9 stars based on 3491 customer reviews. While most customers are satisfied with the supplement, some have reported experiencing side effects.
In addition, according to ReviewMeta, Arazo Nutrition has a brand rating of 2023 and an analysis of 2135 reviews for 7 products in the herbal supplement.
HPF Cholestene Red Yeast Rice
Healthy Origins HPF Cholestene Red Yeast Rice is a commonly recommended dietary supplement for cholesterol support.
It contains 1200 mg of red yeast rice per serving, which has been the subject of over 34 clinical studies in both the United States and China. We recommend taking two capsules twice a day with food.
Reviews of the product are generally positive, with customers praising its effectiveness in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
Thorne Red Yeast Rice + CoQ10
This supplement helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels and healthy lipid particle size and number. It also providing antioxidant support from the added CoQ10.
Reviews of Thorne Red Yeast Rice + CoQ10 are generally positive. Consumer reviews report that it helps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and supports cardiovascular health. Many users have reported good results from taking the supplement.
Additionally, reviews include that it is less expensive than prescription drugs and works better for some. That it has surpassed expectations.
Puritan’s Pride
User reviews for Puritan’s Pride Red Yeast Rice 600 mg are generally positive, with many users reporting that it has helped to lower their cholesterol levels. Other reviews praise the product’s effectiveness and value for money.
On Amazon, the product has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, based on customer reviews.
Weider Red Yeast Rice Plus
Weider Red Yeast Rice is a commonly recommended supplement that has been shown to lower both blood cholesterol and total blood cholesterol levels. While it is generally safe for use, individuals with liver disease or at risk for liver disease should not take it.
Reports from consumers indicate that taking 2400 mg/day of Weider Red Yeast Rice can decrease LDL cholesterol levels. Also, elderly individuals in a study who took 1,200mg/day over 8 weeks did not experience significant side effects.
Furthermore, reviews on Amazon indicate that users have had positive experiences with Weider Red Yeast Rice.
Where to Buy Red Yeast Rice?
You can purchase red yeast rice from a variety of sources, including health food stores, natural grocery stores, and online retailers.
When shopping for red yeast rice, it is important to choose a reputable brand. You also have to carefully read the label to ensure that you are getting a safe and effective product.
It is also advisable to consult with a closest healthcare professional before using any dietary supplement, as certain supplements may interact with medications or have potential side effects.
What To Check Before Buying Red Yeast Rice Brands?
Common Ingredients
Red yeast rice supplements may contain a variety of ingredients, including red yeast rice, monacolin K, and other natural ingredients. Red yeast rice is a fermented product made from rice that has been treated with a specific type of yeast called Monascus Purpureus.
Monacolin K is a compound found in red yeast rice that is believed to have cholesterol-lowering properties.
We may include other ingredients in red yeast rice supplements like herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other natural substances. It is important to carefully read the label of any supplement to understand its specific ingredients and to check for potential allergens or interactions with medications.
What is Monacolin K? Benefit of Monacolin K
We find Monacolin K, a compound, in red yeast rice.
It is a fermented product made from rice that has been treated with a specific type of yeast called Monascus Purpureus.
Monacolin K is chemically similar to the prescription drug lovastatin, which doctors use to lower cholesterol levels.
Some studies suggest that Monacolin K may have cholesterol-lowering properties. Although, more research is needed to confirm this.
How does the FDA regulate red yeast rice brands? Legal Considerations
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates red yeast rice products as dietary supplements. Under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA), dietary supplements are considered to be a type of food, rather than a type of drug, and are not subject to the same level of regulatory oversight as drugs.
However, the FDA has issued warnings about certain red yeast rice products that contain Monacolin K, a compound that is chemically similar to the prescription drug lovastatin, or that make inappropriate claims about their effectiveness.
That is why most supplements do not list the amount of monacolin K that each capsule contains on the label.
The FDA is responsible for ensuring that dietary supplements are safe and properly labeled, but the FDA does not review or approve supplements before they hit the market. Therefore, red yeast rice supplements are neither approved nor regulated by the FDA.
Additionally, the FDA monitors the safety of dietary supplements and has the authority to remove products from the market if they are found to be dangerous or mislabeled.
It is important to note the safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements, including red yeast rice products. Those products are not always well-established, and the FDA does not evaluate all claims made by supplement manufacturers.
Red Yeast Rice – Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Precautions, Dosing (FAQs)
Uses
Red yeast rice may have potential health benefits, such as controlling cholesterol levels, improving circulation and reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Are red yeast rice products effective?
The effectiveness of red yeast rice products in lowering cholesterol and improving other health conditions is not well-established.
Some studies have suggested that red yeast rice may be effective in reducing levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good”) cholesterol. However, the evidence is mixed and more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Should You Take Red Yeast Rice Supplements?
Red yeast rice supplements may interact with certain medications, such as statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs) and warfarin (a blood thinner). The supplements may not be safe for use by certain groups of people, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women and those with liver or kidney problems.
If you are interested in using red yeast rice for its potential cholesterol-lowering effects, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting any supplement. They can help determine if red yeast rice is appropriate for you and can advise on the appropriate dosage and potential risks.
It is also important to note that making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, is usually the first line of treatment for high cholesterol. A healthcare provider can help create a personalized treatment plan that may include lifestyle changes, medication, and other therapies as needed.
Dosing
How much red yeast rice should I take daily?
Most manufacturers of the supplement recommend two capsules twice a day, each with 600 mg. Research has revealed that consuming 2.4 grams per day, that is 4 capsules, for a period of 12 weeks can decrease LDL by 22% and total cholesterol by 16%.
However, the dosage can vary, some sources suggest that you can take 200-1000 mg, two or three times a day. But it’s crucial for individuals to be mindful of the potency of the supplement they are using, as the amount of monacolin K, the active ingredient found in red yeast rice, may vary between different brands.
How much red yeast rice should you take to lower cholesterol?
Manufacturers usually recommend a daily dosage of 2 capsules twice a day, which adds up to 2,400 mg. However, the amount required may fluctuate based on the form of the supplement.
A general recommendation is to consume between 1,200-2,400 mg daily, dividing the dosage into two or three doses. But some health practitioners suggest taking a lower dose (1,200 mg daily)
In TCM( Traditional Chinese Medicine), the dosage of red yeast rice in dietary or supplement form can be relatively high. However, the appropriate dosage for adults may differ based on the form of the supplement. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional to figure out what dosage is suitable for you.
Should I take red yeast rice supplement in the morning or at night?
We recommend consuming red yeast rice while eating a meal. If you only take it once daily, it may be more advantageous to have it before going to bed.
Side effects
Is red yeast rice product bad for your muscles?
Red yeast rice has been linked to muscle aches and weakness, which can potentially cause a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against using red yeast rice due to the risk of severe muscle issues that can lead to kidney damage.
Is red yeast rice bad for your liver?
Reports associate the use of red yeast rice with liver damage. One such case involved a 64-year-old woman who developed acute liver injury after taking it.
The active ingredient found in the cholesterol-lowering drug lovastatin, monacolin K, is present in red yeast rice and carries a risk of liver damage. While most reported cases of liver injury caused by red yeast rice have been mild to moderate in severity and temporary in nature, people with preexisting liver disease or those at risk of it should avoid taking red yeast rice, as it may affect their liver in the same way as prescription statin medications.
Some research suggests that by reducing fat buildup and inflammation in the liver, red yeast rice may have a protective effect against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,
Is red yeast rice bad for your kidneys?
Red yeast rice should be avoided by people with kidney disease, thyroid problems, musculoskeletal disorders, or an increased risk of cancer. Some red yeast rice products may contain citrinin, a contaminant that can cause kidney failure, according to an older study.
However, a more recent study found that red yeast rice may help repair kidney damage and reduce inflammation-promoting transcription factors in rats with hyperlipidemia.
Does red rice yeast raise blood sugar?
Scientists investigate red yeast rice’s effect on blood sugar levels. However, some studies have found that red yeast rice does not significantly increase AST, ALT, and CPK levels, and does not increase the risk of diabetes.
However, a meta-analysis found that red yeast rice was associated with a lower risk of metabolic syndrome (MS), which is linked to high blood sugar levels. ConsumerLab.com also notes that statin drugs may slightly increase blood sugar levels and the risk of diabetes. It is possible that red rice yeast may raise blood sugar levels.
Does red yeast rice cause inflammation?
There are indications that red yeast rice may possess anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that it may decrease inflammation and improve indicators of inflammation in the body, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.
However, more research is necessary to confirm these findings and to determine the best dose and duration of treatment.
Does red rice yeast product cause weight gain?
There is no evidence to suggest that red rice yeast causes weight gain. In fact, some studies have shown that it may have a modest effect on weight loss. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Additionally, it is not a good idea to use red rice yeast or any other dietary supplement as a replacement for a healthy diet and regular exercise. These are the most effective ways to maintain a healthy weight.
Does red yeast rice cause constipation?
There is no evidence to suggest that red yeast rice causes constipation. However, it is possible that some people may experience constipation as a side effect of taking red yeast rice.
If you do experience constipation while taking red yeast rice, it may be helpful to drink plenty of fluids, eat a high-fiber diet, and engage in regular physical activity, which can help to prevent constipation.
Can red yeast rice cause anxiety?
It may also have a small effect on reducing anxiety. In fact, some studies have shown that red yeast rice may have a modest effect on reducing anxiety and improving symptoms of anxiety disorders.
However, healthcare providers do not recommend it for those with anxiety disorders, migraine, traumatic brain injury or other conditions. Scientists need to conduct more research to confirm these findings and to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment.
Precautions
Are red yeast rice products safe during pregnancy?
It is generally recommended that pregnant women avoid taking dietary supplements unless they are specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
This is because the safety of many supplements has not been adequately studied in pregnant women, and some supplements may pose a risk to the developing fetus.
Are red yeast rice products safe for breastfeeding women?
Red yeast rice products are not recommended for breastfeeding women. ANSES has received 25 reports of adverse reactions potentially associated with the consumption of food supplements containing red yeast
When should you not take red yeast rice supplements?
Avoid using this product as it may cause birth defects if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding. In addition, when you are currently taking any medication or have any medical conditions, it is important to consult with your doctor before using it. It is also important to avoid using it if you have liver disease.
Should any adverse reactions occur, such as muscle pain or weakness, rash or gastrointestinal discomfort, discontinue use and seek advice from your doctor. This product is not intended for use by individuals under the age of 18 years old and should be kept out of reach of children.
Finally, for safety reasons, do not use it if the seal under the cap is broken or missing.
Interaction
What supplements should not be taken with red yeast rice?
It is generally advised to avoid taking red yeast rice alongside certain medications or supplements as it may increase the risk of side effects. Some examples include statins like atorvastatin and simvastatin, other cholesterol-lowering drugs, and niacin, also known as nicotinic acid.
Additionally, it is also important to keep in mind that red yeast rice may interact with other medications such as blood thinners, antidepressants and anti-platelet drugs. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications or supplements before starting to take red yeast rice or any other supplement to avoid any potential negative interactions.
Never take red yeast rice capsules with:
- Alcohol
- Grapefruit Juice
- Other statins
- Niacin
- Gemfibrozil
- Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
- Medications that can harm the liver (Hepatotoxic drugs)
- Medications that decrease break down of other medications in the liver (Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibitors)
- Medications used for lowering cholesterol (Statins)
Conclusion
In summary, red yeast rice is commonly used to control blood cholesterol levels, but it is not a medication on its own. It is important to consult a doctor before taking supplements. The products may contain ingredients or chemicals that can cause allergies or severe health problems.
The article lists 10 red yeast rice brands to avoid, and the list is based on consumer reviews. Finally, we also encourages readers to share their own experiences with supplements for lowering cholesterol levels.
