Too high intake of monacolin K can cause side effects
New rules have been introduced regarding the use of monacolin K in red yeast rice supplements. The recommended daily amount should contain less than 3 mg of monacolins.
The bill restricting the use of monacolin K was approved earlier this year, but from June 22, 2022, a maximum amount of less than 3 mg of monacolins per daily dose in red yeast rice supplements will apply. A number of labeling regulations are also made mandatory for red yeast rice products, which discourage use for certain groups.
What is monacolin K?
Red yeast rice is produced by fermentation of rice. During this process the substance monacolin K is formed, a natural ‘statin’. Statins are drugs prescribed for high cholesterol.
An excessive intake of monacolin K can cause side effects, such as muscle pain, stomach and intestinal complaints. But Lareb side effects center also has notifications receiving more serious complaints, such as muscle breakdown, inflammation of the pancreas and disruption of the clotting time.
To get the same effect as statins, it was recommended to take 10 mg of monacolin K daily. Lareb analyzed several preparations and concluded that the amount of monacolin K they contain varies widely. So you could also take in far too much.
Due to the introduction of the new rules, red rice yeast containing 3 mg or more monacolins per capsule may no longer be sold.
Mandatory Warnings
In addition, the following warnings should also be clearly marked on the red yeast rice label:
- Should not be consumed by pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 18 years of age and adults over 70 years of age.
- Get advice from a doctor about consuming this product if you have any health problems.
- Should not be consumed if you are taking cholesterol-lowering drugs.
- Should not be consumed if you are already using other red yeast rice products.
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