Red Yeast Rice and Natto: Best Timing and Cold Medication Guidelines

Red yeast rice natto

Dear Supervisor Tsai,
I have been experiencing elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Currently, I am taking red yeast rice and natto supplements.
Could you please advise whether it is more effective to take these supplements before or after meals? Additionally, if I have a cold, how long should I wait after taking cold medication before taking these supplements? Thank you for taking the time to respond; I greatly appreciate it!

Xiao Cong, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/11/21

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition

Hello! Regarding your issue of high blood cholesterol and triglycerides, it is important to first understand whether your dietary habits are contributing to elevated lipid levels.
If you frequently eat out, consume excessive seafood, meat, or fried foods, these dietary habits need to be adjusted.
Otherwise, simply taking red yeast rice or natto will not yield significant benefits.

Red yeast rice contains Monacolin K, which can inhibit the activity of HMG-CoA reductase, the main enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis, thereby helping to lower blood cholesterol levels.
Natto contains nattokinase, a serine protease with strong fibrinolytic properties, which can help dissolve blood clots.

Many people use these two foods to lower blood lipids.
Although they are food products, it is still important to choose safe options.
For red yeast rice, there is a risk of contamination with citrinin during the fermentation process, which can be harmful to the liver and kidneys in both animals and humans.
Choosing unsafe products could be detrimental to your health.
Finally, I recommend consulting a nutritionist to address your dietary issues, along with incorporating exercise.
When selecting health foods, ensure they are approved by the Department of Health and avoid products with unclear sources or labeling.
As for the timing of consumption, it is advisable to take them at least two hours after meals.
Wishing you good health.
This response is provided by Dietitian Tsai Hsiu-Wen from Nantou Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2005/11/21

More Info

When it comes to managing cholesterol levels, both Red Yeast Rice and Natto are popular dietary supplements that have been shown to have beneficial effects. Red Yeast Rice contains monacolin K, which is a natural statin that can help lower cholesterol levels, while Natto is rich in vitamin K2 and contains nattokinase, which may support cardiovascular health.

Timing of Consumption
The timing of when to take these supplements can influence their effectiveness. Generally, it is recommended to take Red Yeast Rice with meals. Consuming it with food can enhance absorption and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort, which some individuals may experience when taking it on an empty stomach. Therefore, taking Red Yeast Rice right before or during meals is advisable.

Natto, on the other hand, can be consumed at any time of the day. However, many people prefer to eat it as part of breakfast or lunch. The key is to incorporate it into your daily diet in a way that you enjoy, as this will help ensure consistent consumption.

Interaction with Cold Medications
When you are feeling under the weather and need to take cold medications, it is crucial to consider potential interactions. While there is no specific guideline that states you cannot take Red Yeast Rice or Natto while on cold medications, it is generally advisable to space out the consumption of these supplements and any medications to avoid any potential interactions.

Typically, it is best to wait at least 2 hours after taking cold medication before consuming Red Yeast Rice or Natto. This allows your body to metabolize the medication effectively without interference from the supplements. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice, especially if you are on other medications or have underlying health conditions.

Additional Considerations
1. Dietary Balance: While Red Yeast Rice and Natto can be beneficial, they should be part of a balanced diet. Focus on incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals. This holistic approach can help manage cholesterol levels more effectively.

2. Monitoring Cholesterol Levels: Regular monitoring of your cholesterol levels is essential, especially if you are taking supplements. This will help you and your healthcare provider assess the effectiveness of your dietary changes and supplements.

3. Consulting Healthcare Providers: Always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific health needs.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: In addition to taking supplements, consider lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity, reducing saturated fat intake, and avoiding trans fats. These changes can significantly impact your cholesterol levels and overall health.

In conclusion, taking Red Yeast Rice with meals and Natto at your convenience can optimize their benefits. When sick, maintain a gap of at least 2 hours between cold medications and these supplements. Always prioritize a balanced diet and consult with healthcare professionals for tailored advice.

Similar Q&A

Can You Take Natto and Red Yeast Rice with Your Current Medications?

Currently, you are taking the following medications: Fluitran (Trichlormethiazide) 2 mg, Olmetec FC (Olmesartan Medoxomil) 20 mg, Nacid (Hydrotalcite) 500 mg, Norvasc (Amlodipine Besylate) 5 mg, and Plavix (Clopidogrel) 75 mg once daily, as well as Trenrylline SR FC (Pentoxifylli...

Dr. Huang Shenggang reply Pharmacology
Hello, regarding the use of natto and red yeast rice, there are several important considerations: 1. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. 2. Individuals with abnormal liver function tests. 3. Those with liver damage due to chronic alcohol abuse. If you are takin...

Is It Safe to Take Natto and Red Yeast Rice with Medications?

I would like to ask again, is it appropriate to take natto and red yeast rice now, considering that I have never taken them before and I started my current medication two months ago? Should I space out the timing of taking them with my prescription medications? Are there any pote...

Dr. Huang Shenggang reply Pharmacology
Hello, thank you for your follow-up question. Based on the medications you provided last time, there doesn't appear to be any direct interactions at first glance. However, for safety, it would be best to have your pharmacist review them.

Can You Combine Acetec with Red Yeast Rice and Natto for Blood Pressure?

Hello Director Huang: I would like to ask if it is okay to take the antihypertensive medication Acetec (4) once daily after breakfast, and in the evening, can I take a higher dosage (20000 FU/500 mg) of red yeast rice and natto?

Dr. Huang Shenggang reply Pharmacology
Hello Lili, regarding the consumption of red yeast rice and natto, may I ask if you have been taking them regularly? If you have, you can continue to take them. If not, it is advisable to consult a physician for evaluation before starting. Generally speaking, red yeast rice and n...

How to Safely Combine Red Yeast Rice and Fish Oil for Health

Hello, Dietitian Tsai! I was recently diagnosed with an autoimmune condition known as Sjögren's syndrome. I have been taking red yeast rice with Coenzyme Q10 due to slightly elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. However, I also want to incorporate fish oil to ...

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, regarding your inquiry, current research indicates that fish oil may have anti-inflammatory properties. However, based on the literature I reviewed, there is no significant difference in the context of dry eye syndrome associated with dry eye disease. It is generally recom...