There are a number of supplements that provide good health benefits to people when they take it on a regular basis. None of them may compare to what red yeast rice can provide, however, in the way of long-term health benefits. Although studies haven’t shown how safe this supplement is when it is taken for more than 12 weeks at a time, the research proves that there are some specific health benefits that can be received when this supplement is taken.
It all begins with the ability to find a red yeast rice supplement that contains the helpful chemical compounds that can make these benefits a reality. Because it contains more than just a trace of monacolins, red yeast rice supplements have been deemed illegal to sell in their natural form in a variety of markets.
#1. Bad cholesterol is lowered. The primary health benefit that people receive when they take red yeast rice is a lower bad LDL cholesterol count. Over a 8-12 week period, multiple studies have shown that taking this supplement can lower LDL cholesterol by 25-30%. This is achieved because the monacolins in red yeast rice work to block a specific enzyme within the liver that produces the cholesterol.
#2. Good cholesterol is raised. Having a healthy good cholesterol count is just as important as lowering the bad cholesterol count within the body. When taking red yeast rice, many people have experienced higher levels of good cholesterol, sometimes as much as 20% higher than when they first started taking the supplement. This happens because the bad cholesterol is prevented from being produced, making the body turn to good cholesterol production.
#3. Lower overall cholesterol levels are achieved. Red yeast rice lowers the bad cholesterol levels so much that even though it raises good cholesterol levels, a person’s overall cholesterol counts will also be lowered into healthier ranges. This is due to a partial blocking of the enzyme responsible for cholesterol production in the liver.
#4. Cholesterol levels are maintained. Once the lower cholesterol levels are achieved, red yeast rice can help to maintain healthy levels of both good and bad cholesterol over time.
#5. An increase in blood flow. This supplement also helps to increase the level of blood circulation throughout the body because it works to relax the blood vessels, promoting an increase in blood flow. Because of this action, it is also believed that red yeast rice has an anti-inflammatory effect on the human body, although this effect has never been clinically studied.
#6. Better digestion can be achieved. If you really struggle with the foods you eat, then red yeast rice can help make digesting them a bit easier. It isn’t going to act as a laxative, although it can aid in bouts of indigestion as they occur. If anything, it acts to stop diarrhea and may cause constipation if taken in doses that are too high. For people who struggle to stay regular, this supplement may help create a better overall eating experience.