Red Yeast Rice Side Effects: What You Need to Know
Red Yeast Rice Side Effects: What You Need to Know
Red Yeast Rice Side Effects:
What You Need to Know
What Is Red Yeast Rice?
Red yeast rice is made by fermenting white rice with a special type of yeast, and as a result, the rice turns bright reddish purple. Red yeast rice contains an array of natural cholesterol-lowering compounds, including plant sterols, flavonoids, isoflavones, and most notably, at least 13 active monacolins, which block an enzyme involved in cholesterol production in the liver.
Because of this, red yeast rice has been researched for its potential effects on cholesterol. However, its active compounds may also be associated with some of the same possible side effects and safety considerations seen with certain cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Common Side Effects of Red Yeast Rice
While most people tolerate red yeast rice well, some may experience side effects such as:
- Muscle aches or weakness
- Digestive upset (bloating, gas, or heartburn)
- Headaches
- Sleep disturbances
These effects are usually mild, but they can be enough for some users to discontinue use.
Is Red Yeast Rice Bad for Your Liver?
One of the biggest concerns with red yeast rice is its potential impact on the liver. Most studies suggest it can place added stress on liver function. In rare cases, this may elevate liver enzyme levels — a possible sign of strain.
For this reason, individuals with a history of liver issues or those taking medications that affect the liver should avoid red yeast rice unless closely supervised by a healthcare professional.
Who Is Red Yeast Rice Good For?
Red yeast rice may be considered for:
- Individuals looking for a natural way to lower LDL cholesterol
- People who are not currently on statin therapy but have elevated cholesterol
- Those who tolerate statins but want a plant-based option with similar action
Who Should Avoid Red Yeast Rice?
Red yeast rice may not be a good fit for:
- People with liver conditions or elevated liver enzymes
- Those currently taking prescription statins
(risk of “doubling up” on the same active compound) - Those currently taking prescription statins (risk of “doubling up” on the same active compound)
- People who experience muscle pain or statin intolerance
- Anyone taking medications that strongly interact with the liver
(antifungals, certain antibiotics, or other drugs metabolized by the liver) - Anyone taking medications that strongly interact with the liver (antifungals, certain antibiotics, or other drugs metabolized by the liver)
How to Choose a Red Yeast Rice Formula
Not all red yeast rice supplements are the same. Quality and safety can vary widely depending on sourcing, processing, and added ingredients. Here’s what to look for:
- Clinically relevant dosage: Many formulas under-dose. Look for products delivering amounts consistent with the 1,200 mg clinical dose. However, I recommend an extra-strength 1,600 mg for the best outcomes.
- Purity and safety testing: Choose brands that use organic red yeast rice and test for contaminants and citrinin, a harmful byproduct that can appear in poorly manufactured red yeast rice.
- Added nutrients for support: Red yeast rice can lower CoQ10 levels, so the best formulas combine it with CoQ10 to help maintain energy and muscle function.
A Safer Alternative: Citrus Bergamot in Durable HEART®
If you’re concerned about the possible side effects of red yeast rice—particularly its impact on the liver—there are alternatives that have been clinically researched. One of the most studied is citrus bergamot, a little-known polyphenol-rich citrus fruit. Unlike red yeast rice, citrus bergamot does not contain statin-like compounds, which makes it appealing for those seeking a different approach to cholesterol support.
Durable HEART® was formulated by Dr. Kevin Passero and uses patented Bergamonte®, the gold-standard citrus bergamot extract grown in Calabria, Italy, and backed by human clinical trials shown to:
Why Citrus Bergamonte® Works for Natural Cholesterol Support
Citrus bergamot is a unique polyphenol-rich fruit grown in Calabria, Italy. Its bioactive compounds—especially brutieridin and melitidin—work on the same cholesterol-regulating pathways as certain conventional approaches, but without side effects.
The secret lies in the clinically studied Bergamonte® extract, which supports cardiovascular and metabolic health through multiple natural mechanisms:
Unlike some conventional approaches, citrus bergamot works peripherally—lowering bad cholesterol in the body while preserving healthy brain cholesterol for memory and mood.
The Problem: Most Citrus Bergamot Supplements Don’t Deliver
The market is crowded with ineffective bergamot supplements. Many of these:
- Use non-standardized fruit powder instead of a clinically studied extract
- Contain less than the proven 500–1,000 mg daily dosage
- Skip vitamin C—key for maximizing polyphenol absorption
- Omit complementary nutrients like olive leaf extract for synergistic heart support
- Lack third-party testing for purity and potency and are not made in the USA
Without the right form, dose, and absorption support, you could be taking bergamot for months without seeing meaningful improvements in your cholesterol.
What Makes Durable HEART the Best Choice for Cholesterol Support
Formulated using the same clinically proven cholesterol protocol trusted in our clinics, Durable HEART® delivers a clinical-grade approach to healthy lipid balance. Here’s what sets it apart:
1. Features Bergamonte®—the Gold-Standard Extract
Only Bergamonte® is grown exclusively in Calabria, Italy and standardized to deliver a clinical-strength dose of polyphenols (>38%). Backed by 14 published human trials, it provides the full spectrum of cholesterol-supportive compounds proven to deliver real results—something generic citrus bergamot simply can’t match.
2. Clinical Dosage to Balance Cholesterol—Fast
Delivers 1,000 mg daily, the exact dosage shown in human studies to lower LDL, raise HDL, reduce triglycerides, and support healthy blood sugar in just 30 days.*
3. Vitamin C for Enhanced Bergamot Benefits
Includes 50 mg of premium non-GMO vitamin C extract—an often-overlooked addition that amplifies results. Vitamin C boosts your body’s ability to fully utilize Bergamonte®’s cholesterol-balancing properties while providing potent antioxidant protection.* See the study →
4. Olive Leaf Extract for Artery & Inflammation Support
Provides 100 mg of pure olive leaf extract, sourced from freshly picked Spanish olive leaves and processed immediately after harvest to preserve potency. Rich in oleuropein, it supports healthy lipid metabolism, arterial health, and inflammation balance—making it the perfect complement to Bergamonte®.* See the study →
5. Doctor-Formulated to Do Better—Down to the Bottle
Created by Dr. Kevin Passero, a physician with 20+ years of experience, Durable HEART delivers:
- A clinically studied form of citrus bergamot at the exact dosage proven in human trials
- A clean formula—free from fillers, dyes, or unnecessary additives
- Made in the USA and third-party lab tested for purity
- Packaged in amber glass to prevent plastic leaching and UV degradation
- Backed by our 1-Year “Better Labs or Your Money Back” Guarantee
Why Olive Leaf Extract Makes Durable HEART Better
While Bergamonte® citrus bergamot delivers unmatched performance in terms of balancing cholesterol and lowering triglycerides, Durable HEART® takes it a step further with 100 mg of pure olive leaf extract—sourced from freshly picked Spanish olive leaves and processed immediately after harvest to preserve maximum potency.
Olive leaf extract is rich in oleuropein, a powerful polyphenol that:
- Supports healthy lipid metabolism to help maintain optimal cholesterol balance*
- Promotes arterial health by protecting vessel walls from oxidative stress*
- Helps regulate inflammation for better cardiovascular resilience*
Most bergamot supplements skip this powerful companion ingredient. We include it because olive leaf’s benefits perfectly complement Bergamonte®—providing broader heart and vessel support for a more complete cardiovascular solution.
Durable HEART vs. Standard Bergamot Supplements
Durable HEART vs. Standard Bergamot Supplements
Swipe to see full chart →
Durable HEART | Most Bergamot Supplements | |
Bergamonte® | Yes | No |
1,000 mg Clinical Dose | Yes | Often <500 mg |
Standardized Polyphenols | Yes | Unknown |
Vitamin C for Absorption | Yes | No |
Olive Leaf Extract | Yes | No proof |
Ingredients with | Yes (multiple) | Few or none |
Source | Calabria, Italy | Often untraceable |
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Balance Cholesterol Naturally—in as Little as 90 Days
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Within 90 days you can expect Durable HEART to:
Within 90 days you can expect Durable HEART to:
- Promotes superior cardiovascular function*
- Supports healthy cholesterol balance*
- Promotes optimal HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels*
- Helps maintain healthy triglycerides*
- Supports healthy blood sugar metabolism*
- Aids in healthy weight management*
For As Low As $29.95 + Free Shipping
Within 90 days you can expect Durable HEART to:
- Promotes superior cardiovascular health and function*
- Supports healthy cholesterol balance*
- Encourages optimal HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels*
- Helps maintain healthy triglycerides*
- Supports healthy blood sugar metabolism*
- Aids in healthy weight management*
About Dr. Kevin Passero
Dr. Kevin Passero is a leading functional medicine expert and practicing naturopathic physician on a mission to empower people to take control of their health.
Through his two popular clinics in the Washington, DC metro area, he’s helped thousands of people find the root causes of their health imbalances and recover their energy, vitality, clarity and resilience.
Dr. Passero blends cutting-edge diagnostics with proven natural therapies to help his patients get results. He formulates every Durable supplement drawing on his over 20 years of clinical experience and the latest scientific research.
Outside of work, you can often find him enjoying the outdoors with his family.
†Dr. Kevin Passero is a licensed Naturopathic Physician in the District of Columbia and licensed Naturopathic Doctor in the State of Maryland.