What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is the fat-like waxy substance that the body needs to build body cells, hormones, and vitamins, and helps the nervous system. It is obtained from the diet as well as made in the liver. This cholesterol travels in the bloodstream in the form of small round particles called lipoproteins. These lipoproteins are basically of two types, low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL) (staff, 2020).
1. LDL is considered the bad type because it contributes to the buildup of fatty deposits as plaques in the arteries that eventually block blood flow in that artery. Some LDL is required for building new body cells, however, too much LDL can lead to the accumulation of plaques in the artery.
2. HDL is a good and helpful type of cholesterol that helps to transport the extra cholesterol from the bloodstream towards the liver so that the liver can get rid of it, thereby preventing the buildup of plaques in the arteries. The aim is to keep the level of HDL high.
What is the problem with triglycerides?
Triglycerides are fats that the body makes as well as obtains from the diet. Most of the fats that we consume are in the form of triglycerides. Excess calories, sugar, and alcohol are converted into triglycerides and stored in the fat cells. However, having too many triglycerides in the body, along with raised cholesterol levels can subsequently increase your risk of stroke, heart attack, and pancreatitis (Triglyderides, 2021).
How does red yeast rice help with cholesterol?
Red yeast rice is a traditional Chinese medicine product and an Asian dietary staple in which the yeast Monascus purpureus is grown and fermented on top of white rice. Studies show that red yeast rice contains compounds that mimic the cholesterol-lowering drug lovastatin (Cholesterol Reduction: Red Yeast Rice and Plant Stanols, n.d.), therefore, red yeast rice can be taken as a supplement to lower cholesterol as well (Red yeast rice, 2020). But caution should be exercised if you are already taking cholesterol-lowering drugs or if you intend to take red yeast rice as a complementary health supplement to lower your cholesterol levels as there are side effects associated with it (Red Yeast Rice, 2013).
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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