Brewer's yeast: what it is, properties and benefits

There are still people who wonder what brewer's yeast is and what its properties and contraindications are. That is why we have put together this article, where we provide all the answers on the subject. Let’s take a look!

What is brewer's yeast?

This product is obtained from the fermentation of cereals such as barley or wheat. And for this kind of process to be possible, the collaboration of a microorganism called Saccharomyces cerevisiae is required.

Once obtained, the resulting product is dried, cleaned and pasteurised so it can be sold in flakes or powder form. It is also sold in capsules or tablets as a nutritional supplement.

On the other hand, it is important to point out that most brewer's yeast sold on the market has undergone a process to remove its original bitter taste. That is why it can be found on the market as debittered yeast.

What is brewer's yeast used for?

Before explaining what brewer's yeast is used for, it is worth noting that this is an ingredient that must undergo another chemical process. Only in this way can it be used as an active ingredient in other products.

During this process, it loses its fermenting capacity, but its nutritional properties are generally retained. The most notable thing about brewer's yeast and its properties is its iron, fibre, mineral, protein and vitamin B content. All this means it can help prevent obesity, improve digestion and support muscle gain. It also helps control cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Despite its benefits, and to avoid side effects, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting to take it.

Your doctor or pharmacist will know the concentration of the product and how to establish a personalised dose. The reason is that it contains purine, and this substance is not recommended for patients who suffer from kidney stones or gout.

Benefits of brewer's yeast

The many health benefits of brewer's yeast make it a highly recommended supplement. What are they?

1. Strengthens the immune system

Due to its content of B-complex vitamins and minerals, brewer's yeast can strengthen the immune system. For this reason, it is very helpful in preventing illnesses such as flu, allergies or psoriasis.

2. Regulates glucose levels

The presence of a mineral such as chromium allows it to regulate blood sugar levels. In addition, thanks to its high fibre content, it also can help control insulin levels.

However, it is important to note that, in the case of diabetes, it is advisable to consult a doctor before consuming it.

3. Supports bowel function

Brewer's yeast is considered a probiotic, which, together with its high beta-glucan content, makes it a beneficial food for improving digestion.

Likewise, it is useful in the treatment of certain digestive disorders such as diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis and lactose intolerance. In addition, regular consumption may help regulate bowel function.

4. Helps reduce cholesterol

Its beta-glucan content allows it to regulate LDL or bad cholesterol. On the other hand, chromium increases levels of good cholesterol or HDL in the blood.

5. Improves nails, hair and skin

Regular consumption can help improve the appearance of nails and hair, as well as the skin. Its supply of essential nutrients helps combat acne, eczema and psoriasis.

In addition, the minerals it contains promote collagen production, which helps keep the skin firm and supple.

6. Aids weight loss

Does brewer's yeast make you put on weight? The answer to this question is simple: no, it does not. It is worth noting that it is a great support for those who want to lose weight, as it helps regulate appetite.

For this purpose, we recommend taking one tablespoon of brewer's yeast half an hour before your main meals. However, it should be remembered that it is not low in calories.

7. Increases muscle mass

Its high carbohydrate and protein content supports muscle recovery and helps prevent injuries during physical activity.

It also provides minerals such as calcium, potassium and magnesium in significant amounts. All of them are necessary for muscle function.

8. Fights tiredness and fatigue

It is a product that contains essential minerals, vitamin B2 and amino acids that stimulate energy metabolism. This makes it an ideal supplement for people suffering from anaemia, nutritional deficiencies, asthenia or lack of motivation.

9. Improves mood

It supports the functioning of the nervous system, which may help in cases of depression, anxiety or stress.

Likewise, regular consumption reduces mental and physical tiredness, providing the right energy for daily life.

Brewer's yeast: benefits for women

Among the benefits of brewer's yeast for women's health, the following stand out:

• Thanks to its high iron content, it helps combat iron-deficiency anaemia and reduces the discomfort of premenstrual syndrome.
• It acts as a detoxifying and regenerating agent thanks to its richness in B vitamins, improving the condition of the skin, hair and nails.
• It provides folic acid, which is beneficial for pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant.
• It helps regulate blood sugar levels, which may be beneficial for women with diabetes or blood sugar control problems.

Brewer's yeast: does it have contraindications and side effects?

As well as knowing what brewer's yeast is, we should talk about its contraindications and side effects.

Side effects

As a general rule, consuming it is safe, but too much may cause:

• Headache.
• Stomach discomfort.
• Abdominal bloating.
• Excess intestinal gas.

Contraindications of brewer's yeast

It is important to know that it is not recommended to consume it without the supervision of a healthcare professional during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Nor is it recommended for people with a compromised or weak immune system, or for people with diabetes, in order to avoid hypoglycaemia.

How should brewer's yeast be taken?

In our online shop, you can buy brewer's yeast in different formats: capsules, powder or tablets. When choosing tablets or capsules, the right thing to do is follow each manufacturer's instructions, as directions may vary.

However, it is usually recommended to take around six capsules or tablets a day with your main meals. If you choose the powder instead, one or two tablespoons a day will be enough.

Likewise, the directions for use on the label should be followed, but it is usually dissolved in a glass of water or added to yoghurts, juice or milk.

Does brewer's yeast make you put on weight?

No, brewer's yeast does not make you put on weight. In fact, it is a perfect food for regulating appetite as it is very filling thanks to its high protein and fibre content. That said, the recommended daily dose should never be exceeded.

Although we have already explained what brewer's yeast is, as well as its benefits, side effects and contraindications, if you have any other questions about how to use it, you can contact us so that we can provide more personalised information.

Remember that at Farmaciasdirect you will find a wide catalogue of brewer's yeast supplements, at the best price and with exclusive discounts.

Bibliography:

• García, L. (2021). Brewer's yeast: A comprehensive review of its nutritional properties and health benefits. Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics, 28(2), 87-102.
• Rodríguez, A., & Martínez, J. (2020). Composition and applications of brewer's yeast in the food industry. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 15(1), 45-59.
• Author, A. (2018). Brewer's yeast and its potential in the prevention of chronic diseases. Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 12(3), 143-157.