Does monascus red help to improve blood circulation? Scientific answer

Monascus red is a natural pigment extracted from monascus rice, which has attracted wide attention because of its unique red color and potential health care function. In recent years, the research on whether monascus red can improve blood circulation has gradually increased, but the answer to this question is not simple and needs scientific analysis from multiple angles.

1. The main components of monascus and its mechanism of action.

Monacolins are the main active components of monascus, of which K(Monacolin K is well known, which is similar to Lovastatin, a cholesterol-lowering drug. Monacolin K can reduce the synthesis of cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, thus reducing the level of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in blood. This mechanism is thought to indirectly improve blood circulation, because hypercholesterolemia is an important risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.

In addition, monascus contains other bioactive substances, such as γ -aminobutyric acid (GABA), ergosterol, polyphenols and so on. These components may have a positive effect on blood circulation through anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation and vasodilation.

2. The effect of monascus on cholesterol and blood lipid.

Many studies have shown that monascus red has a significant cholesterol-lowering effect. For example, a meta-analysis found that monascus red supplements can significantly reduce the levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, while increasing the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). This blood lipid regulation may help to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, thus improving blood circulation.

However, the cholesterol-lowering effect of monascus red varies from individual to individual, and the safety of long-term use still needs further study. It is worth noting that Monacolin K in monascus red has similar risk of side effects as lovastatin, such as muscle pain and abnormal liver function, so we should be cautious when using monascus red supplements.

3. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of monascus.

The improvement of blood circulation is not only related to blood lipid level, but also closely related to vascular endothelial function and inflammatory state. Polyphenols and ergosterol in monascus have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may protect vascular endothelial cells and improve vascular function by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction.

Studies have shown that monascus can inhibit lipid peroxidation and the release of inflammatory factors, thus reducing the damage of blood vessel wall. In addition, monascus red may also promote vasodilation and improve blood flow by increasing the production of nitric oxide (NO).

4. Effect of monascus on blood pressure

Hypertension is another important factor leading to blood circulation disorder. Some studies have shown that monascus red may lower blood pressure through various mechanisms. For example, γ -aminobutyric acid (GABA) in monascus has the function of neurotransmitter, which can inhibit sympathetic nerve activity and reduce vascular tension, thus lowering blood pressure.

In addition, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of monascus red may also indirectly reduce blood pressure by reducing vascular endothelial injury and improving vascular elasticity. However, at present, the research on the effect of monascus on blood pressure is not sufficient, and more high-quality clinical trials are needed to verify its effect.

5. Safety of monascus and suggestions for its use

Although monascus has many potential health care functions, its safety still needs careful evaluation. Monacolin K in monascus has similar pharmacological effects to lovastatin, so it may cause similar side effects, such as muscle pain and abnormal liver function. In addition, some components in monascus red may interact with other drugs, increasing the risk of adverse reactions.

For people who want to use monascus to improve blood circulation, it is recommended to do so under the guidance of a doctor or a professional dietitian. Especially for people who have already taken cholesterol-lowering drugs or anticoagulant drugs, they should avoid using monascus red supplements themselves to avoid increasing the risk of adverse reactions.

6. Conclusion

Based on the existing research, monascus red may improve blood circulation through various mechanisms, including lowering cholesterol level, antioxidation, anti-inflammation and lowering blood pressure. However, these effects vary from individual to individual, and the safety of long-term use still needs further study. Therefore, monascus red should not be regarded as a substitute drug for treating cardiovascular diseases, but should be used rationally as an auxiliary health care means under professional guidance.

Generally speaking, monascus has certain potential in improving blood circulation, but its effect and safety still need more high-quality research to verify. For the general population, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as a balanced diet, moderate exercise, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol, is still an effective way to improve blood circulation.