Red Yeast Rice By Whole Foods Overview & Drug Interactions

Calcium is a vital nutrient found in various foods such as dairy products, certain vegetables, and many fortified items. Over 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, predominantly as hydroxyapatite. The remaining calcium circulates in the blood, extracellular fluid, muscles, and other tissues, where it is essential for processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, vascular activities, glandular secretion, and maintaining cell membrane and capillary permeability. It also plays critical roles in enzyme reactions, respiration, kidney function, and blood clotting, and is involved in neurotransmitter and hormone release, amino acid uptake, vitamin B12 absorption, and gastrin secretion. Calcium balance changes with age: it is positive during periods of growth, stable in adulthood, and tends to become negative in older age. Calcium loss occurs through feces, urine, sweat, and shedding skin cells. In women, reduced estrogen levels decrease calcium absorption and retention, increase bone turnover, and lead to lower bone mass. Calcium supplements come in various forms, including citrate and carbonate, which differ mainly in their calcium content and absorption rates. Calcium citrate is easily absorbed and can be taken without food, making it suitable for older adults or those with low stomach acid. In contrast, calcium carbonate, which contains a higher percentage of calcium, is best absorbed when taken with meals.

Red yeast rice is a type of fermented rice produced by the cultivation of a type of yeast called Monascus purpureus. The rice is soaked in water and then allowed to ferment with the yeast for several weeks. During the fermentation process, the rice turns a deep red color and develops a distinctive, slightly sweet, and sour taste. Red yeast rice has a long history of use in traditional medicine and has been used as a natural remedy for a range of health conditions, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Red yeast rice is thought to work by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver and by helping to improve circulation. Red yeast rice contains a compound known as mevinolin, which is identical to the FDA-approved drug lovastatin.