Choleast™ 120 Vegetarian Capsules

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.