High cholesterol and fatty liver, can I take monacolin K supplements?
Dear Doctor, I have taken Armolipid Plus for some time to control my high cholesterol (above 200). Now I have read that monacolin K can cause liver problems. I have hepatic steatosis probably caused by high cholesterol levels. Can I take supplements containing monacolin K without problems, or should I switch supplements? If so, which do you recommend? Thank you.
Dear Giulio,
The product Armolipid Plus you mentioned is a dietary supplement from a different manufacturer than ours, so we cannot give specific advice about it. Regarding your question about monacolin K (a substance obtained from the fermentation of common rice by the fungus Monascus purpureus), which for years was used in nutraceutical supplements as a valid support for those who could not control cholesterol but did not need or want statins, we inform you that it can no longer be used as in the past: the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has decided that the dosages allowed in supplements were too high for a substance that acts like a drug.
With the publication in the Official Journal of the European Union on June 2, 2022, of Commission Regulation (EU) 2022/860, monacolin K was included in the list of substances whose use is allowed only under specific conditions. According to the new provisions, all supplements providing 3 mg or more of monacolin K total per day are prohibited, and the claim related to cholesterol reduction benefits can no longer be used.
Warnings related to the presence of fermented red rice are as follows: The product must not be consumed by pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 18 years old, and adults over 70 years old. Consult a doctor before using this product if you have health problems. The product must not be consumed if you are taking cholesterol-lowering medications.
It must not be consumed if you are already taking other products containing fermented red rice. It is recommended not to consume 3 mg or more per day of monacolins from fermented red rice. To our knowledge, there is no evidence of contraindications of monacolin K with your hepatic steatosis. Among our products, we can recommend Cardiol Forte.
Cardiol Forte contains: omega-3 from fish oil useful to reduce triglycerides, fermented red rice extract, artichoke leaf extract (the bioflavonoids have choleretic, cholagogue, and hepatoprotective activity, and the flavonoids inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis and protect LDL from oxidative damage), olive polyphenols whose protective effects on LDL cholesterol oxidation have been demonstrated in numerous studies, and coenzyme Q10.
Please remember that dietary supplements should not be considered substitutes for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. We generally recommend consulting your doctor who is aware of the medications you take, possible interactions with ingredients in dietary supplements you regularly consume or want to add to your diet, and who is aware of your clinical history.
Best regards, Silvia Lisciani Ph.D. Nutritionist Biologist
