The main ingredient in Thorne Research’s Choleast is a red-pigmented yeast called Monascus purpureus that is grown on rice. Many studies have shown that this red yeast is effective at maintaining normal cholesterol levels. Adding Choleast to a healthy diet can help keep cholesterol levels optimal, which is essential for heart health.The yeast in Choleast contains naturally occurring substances called monacolins and phytosterols campesterol, sigmasterol and beta-sitosterol.
The Relationship Between Cholesterol and CoQ10
Interestingly, the same enzymes that handle the synthesis of cholesterol are also involved in synthesizing CoQ10 (coenzyme Q10). This is why Thorn Research includes at least 15 mg of CoQ10 per capsule. Coenzyme Q10 is necessary for basic cell functioning, but the body’s levels decline with age. Those with a CoQ10 deficiency may notice changes in memory and cognitive function. Supplementing with CoQ10 can enhance antioxidant activity, thus reducing harmful lipid oxidation in the body.
The Thorne Research Difference
Thorne Research goes to great lengths to ensure that each capsule only contains minimal amounts of citrinin, an unavoidable mycotoxin that comes as a result of the fermentation process. Mycotoxins, which can be found in larger quantities in many competing products, have been known to cause inflammation and other undesirable effects on the body. A recent study, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, reported that red yeast rice products contained a high variability of citrinin. Choleast was not part of the study, but Thorne Research confirms that they produce the product to comply with the utmost quality standards. Under testing, Choleast was found to contain less than 1/20 of the standard rates of citrinin found in red yeast rice products.
Not only are there far less undesirable ingredients, but Choleast also contains higher concentrations of naturally occurring monacolins (the ingredient included to maintain healthy cholesterol levels). Some competitors may reach similar levels, but they do so through fortification (adding monacolins after the fermentation process). Choleast is produced to be in compliance with GMP regulations, so that means you can trust the strength, composition, identity and purity of each ingredient.
Choleast as Part of a Healthy Lifestyle
Choleast is not a replacement for cholesterol lowering medications as it functions best when cholesterol levels are already low. Those who are considering Choleast to maintain healthy cholesterol levels should also maintain a diet that is low in saturated fat and carbohydrates. Such individuals should also eat anti-oxidant rich foods like fruits and leafy green vegetables to keep their bad cholesterol from oxidizing. The type of cholesterol that doctors are most concerned with is LDL (as opposed to HDL). LDL is especially dangerous when it becomes oxidized. Antioxidants are important to avoid LDL oxidation. It is also recommended that anyone who is concerned with their cholesterol level should include an aerobic fitness routine in to their daily schedule.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before starting any exercise or nutritional supplement program or before using these or any product during pregnancy or if you have a serious medical condition.
Ingredients
Four Capsules Contain:
Red Yeast Rice (Monascus purpureus) 2.4 g.
Coenzyme Q10 60 mg.
Other Ingredients: Hypromellose (derived from cellulose) capsule, Leucine.
Contains ingredient derived from soy (rice).
This product does not contain wheat, gluten, corn, egg, dairy products, or artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors. This product also does not contain lactose, palmitic acid, or magnesium, calcium, or vegetable stearates.
Suggested Use: Take 2-4 capsules two times daily or as recommended by a health-care practitioner.
Servings Per Container: 30
Warnings
ALLERGY WARNINGS
This product is contraindicated in an individual with a history of hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients.
EXCIPIENT FREE
This product does not contain wheat, gluten, corn, egg, dairy products, or artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors. This product also does not contain lactose, palmitic acid, or magnesium, calcium, or vegetable stearates.
PREGNANCY WARNING
If pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive, do not use this product.
INTERACTIONS/CONTRAINDICATIONS
There are no known adverse interactions or contraindications at publication date.
OTHER WARNINGS
Red yeast rice can cause gastritis, abdominal discomfort, and elevated liver enzymes. It is possible that reactions similar to those caused by HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor drugs (statins) can be caused by red yeast; however, those adverse reactions have not been reported for red yeast rice extracts.
This product may cause a temporary and harmless red coloring of the stool.
Price: $36.05 ($5.63 / oz)
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Review Thorne Research - Choleast (red yeast rice) - 120's
Gets 5 star from consumer who tried this product, The following is a quote from consumer
I started taking Choleast a little over a month ago. My doctor just did a blood test and my LDL is DOWN 60 points! My good cholesterol is UP 8 points. My cholesterol has not been this good in over 10 years. This is the best product I have used in years. I can't recommend it highly enough. I am so happy I didn't have to take statin drugs. Thrilled!Click Here To Read More Reviews
My doctor suggested I take Choleast brand to lower my cholesterol. It had amazing results. My total number went down 70 points in under 3 months. Unfortunately I had to discontinue use of it because I finally realized that the terrible lower back pain I was experiencing was connected it to the red yeast rice. Beware that it acts as a statin and therefore carries with it the same side effects that you may experience from statins, which include muscle pain. For me the pain was so bad that I ended up at a pain center for evaluation. I may be the rare individual who experiences side effects, but be on the lookout for any new pain issues when you start taking this.
