Brewer’s yeast: Everything you need to know

01/12/2016
Brewer's yeast wth fruits.

Βrewer’s yeast is one of the most talked about dietary supplements. Brewer’s yeast, in contrast with the baker’s yeast, is composed of a single type of unicellular organism, a yeast, which belongs to the species of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Traditionally is used for fermentation and production of several kinds of beer, hence it took the so called name.

Nutritional value

  Brewer’s yeast is highly nutritious. It is a rich source of minerals, mainly selenium, chromium and magnesium, while also contains vitamins of B complex except for vitamin B12. It contains vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), folic acid, biotin, and proteins. Some commercial supplements are fortified with vitamin B12 for better absorption and completeness.

Indications

  Brewer’s yeast is suitable for many different situations. People who can benefit from supplementation of brewer’s yeast is people who have:

  • Weak hair, nails and skin
  • Hair Loss
  • Indigestion or bloating
  • Diabetes
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Acne
  • Cramps
  • Weak nervous system
  • Fatigue, physical weakness
  • Gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhea)

Action

B complex vitamins

  Vitamins of B complex are involved in many biochemical pathways, making them essential to the health of body, as a whole. They play an important role in the digestion and metabolism of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins and fat), health of neuromuscular system and energy production mechanisms in cells, brain function and the health of hair, skin and nails.

Chromium

   The significant concentration of chromium, in contrast to the bakery yeast, makes brewer’s yeast an important aid to better management of diabetes. Chromium is a metal which helps in better action of insulin, a hormone necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates. Several studies suggest that people with insulin resistance or established diabetes mellitus type II may take advantage of the brewer’s yeast by improving glycemic control.

   Chromium, further, helps to reduce appetite and desire for sweets. Based on this fact, many people believe that the brewer’s yeast may be helpful in weight loss attempts.

Selenium

  Selenium is one of the most powerful antioxidant micronutrients. Due to its antioxidant properties, exerts a protective effect on blood lipids (cholesterol) providing indirectly cardiovascular protection. Some studies have shown that supplementation of brewer’s yeast helps even in reduction of bad cholesterol (LDL) and increasing of good one (HDL).

In addition, various reports supports that brewer’s yeast helps treatment of acne and possibly has adjuvant properties helping to prevent colds, flus and infections of the upper respiratory tract. It also contributes to breast milk production and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, especially diarrhea.

Dosage

  Brewer’s yeast is commercially available in two forms, either in tablets or in powder form. The recommended dosage depends on the concentration of the supplement, however in most cases is up to 2000mg daily, evenly spaced throughout the day and in presence of meal.

Contraindications

  People who are on medication for diabetes should first consult their doctor before taking brewer’s yeast. Individuals who take antidepressants, have allergy in yeast or elevated uric acid (gout), pregnant and lactating women, suffer from Parkinson’s and Alzheimer‘s disease, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn or ulcerative colitis), have reduced immunization and children should avoid taking supplements of brewer’s yeast.

  In our store you can find a wide variety of brewer’s yeast supplements.

Iro Gounitsioti

Msc, Bsc Clinical Dietitian - Nutritionist specialized in obesity, diabetes management, athletic nutrition as well as in nutritional supplements.

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Disclaimer

The content of this blogspot is not and can not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All information is provided to readers solely for informational purposes. There is no intention to substitute this content for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, prognosis or treatment.

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