Can Cardiol cause side effects, such as increased transaminases and CPK values?
Good morning, I would like to know if Cardiol, given the presence of the natural statin monacolin K among its components, could cause as a side effect a slight increase in transaminases and CPK values. If so, could I alternatively take 3 grams of Omegor Vitality? How many 1440 mg capsules should I take? Thank you for your kindness and availability.
Dear Mr. Augusto,
Omega-3 fatty acids are important nutrients for the proper functioning of the body.
They particularly influence blood levels of HDL (promoting its increase) and triglycerides, effectively helping to reduce triglycerides when elevated. Omega-3 fatty acids do not significantly reduce total cholesterol or LDL cholesterol.
As you correctly noted, fermented red rice, present in the Cardiol formulation, contains monacolins, particularly monacolin K. A recent European regulation limits the use of total monacolins in dietary supplements to less than 3 mg per dose. This is based on years of study by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) on the adverse effects of this ingredient, which is chemically very similar to lovastatin. Additionally, warnings regarding fermented red rice include: it should not be consumed by pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 18, or adults over 70 years old.
Consult a physician before consuming this product if you have health problems.
This product should not be consumed if you are taking cholesterol-lowering medication.
Do not consume if you already take other products containing fermented red rice.
It is recommended not to consume 3 mg or more of monacolins from fermented red rice per day.
To our knowledge, there is no evidence linking monacolin K with the side effects you mentioned. Alternatively, we can suggest our dietary supplement Eulipid, which provides an appropriate dose of antioxidants, essential for both the protection of the cardiovascular system and other tissues from damage caused by oxidative stress, a leading cause of cellular deterioration.
Eulipid contains no fish oil and features berberine as its main active ingredient, extracted from Berberis aristata, a plant widely used in Ayurvedic medicine that facilitates the liver's "capture" of cholesterol. Eulipid also contains resveratrol, bioflavonoids, tocotrienols, policosanols, and coenzyme Q10 with antioxidant and protective effects for the circulatory system.
The recommended dose of Eulipid is 1 tablet per day, preferably taken shortly before dinner. Ideally, it should be combined with an Omega-3 supplement such as Omegor Vitality 1000.
Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA contribute to maintaining normal heart function and normal blood triglyceride levels with a daily intake of 2 g (3 capsules of Omegor Vitality 1000).
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 normally consume or intend to add, and your clinical history.
Additionally, we naturally recommend informing your doctor of any dietary changes or supplements you plan to adopt, including the possibility of using our products, so that together you can decide on the most appropriate therapy. I remain available for further information.
Best regards,
Dr. Rosaria Ramondino Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist
