Cholesterol at normal levels is an essential substance for the organism. It is a sterol lipid, present in every cell of the body, essential for digesting food, producing hormones, and secreting vitamin D. High levels of cholesterol in the blood are considered dangerous and can lead to the risk of a heart attack.

The organism produces cholesterol, but it can also be consumed in food. It is an oil-based substance that does not mix with blood. It circulates throughout the body in lipoproteins: low-density lipoproteins (LDL) or “bad cholesterol” and high-density lipoproteins (HDL) or “good cholesterol”.

Cholesterol build-up is part of a process that narrows arteries called atherosclerosis. In this condition, plaques form and restrict blood flow. Reducing dietary intake of excess fats and refined carbohydrates can help support healthy cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is naturally found in all animal-based foods.

Obesity may contribute to elevated LDL cholesterol levels, and genetic factors can also play a role in overall cholesterol balance. Individuals with the inherited condition hypercholesterolemia often have significantly higher LDL levels. Other conditions that can lead to higher cholesterol levels include diabetes, liver or kidney disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, and an underactive thyroid gland. Some prescribed medications can also affect cholesterol levels.

Formula CT™ is a combination of red yeast rice and inositol hexaniacinate formulated to support healthy cholesterol levels.

Ingredients

Red yeast rice is a substance extracted from rice that has been fermented with a type of yeast called Monascus purpureus. It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries.

Red yeast rice contains several compounds that may support controlled cholesterol levels. These include several monacolins (monacolin K), sterols, isoflavones, and monounsaturated fatty acids.

Various studies in the United States have shown that a daily dosage of red yeast rice (2,500 mg) may help reduce cholesterol levels by 20-25%. The effects of red yeast rice were also tested in China, involving 5000 people. The study showed that people with coronary artery disease (CAD) who took red yeast rice were 30-33% less likely to die from CAD or any other cholesterol-related condition.

Inositol hexanicotinate, also called flush-free niacin (vitamin B3), is a derivative and ester of two compounds – niacin and inositol. It is used to promote overall lipid (cholesterol) management, blood circulation, and reduced blood clotting.

Several clinical studies have demonstrated that inositol hexanicotinate may have a beneficial effect on vasodilatation and improve blood flow in conditions where blood flow is compromised.