Yeast to the cholesterol rescue

Supplements based on the fungus, which is a type of yeast extracted from the grain, are being tested as an alternative to statins. The trial, conducted at the University of Antwerp, asks volunteers to take a supplement or a placebo daily for eight weeks. The supplement will contain an extract of the fungus, called monascus purureus, which is fermented before use. This contains several compounds called monacolins, which have been shown in earlier tests to inhibit the production of "bad" LDL cholesterol in the body. Results also suggest that it may lower the amount of fats — called triglycerides — in the blood. Though statins are effective against high cholesterol, it has been estimated that up to 18 per cent of people cannot tolerate them due to side-effects that include muscle pain and weakness.