Brewer's Yeast: Benefits, properties and side effects

Let's talk about vitamin supplements with brewer's yeast and what are the contributions that its consumption can offer not only to help maintain a good shape, but to support the proper functioning of the body and the general health of the body. The benefits of yeast can be more convenient than we think, so knowing their properties and actions allows the best action of their nutrients.

What is brewer's yeast?

It is wrong to say that yeast is only used in the production of the popular drink because it is a single component. In fact, it is a unicellular fungus, identified as Saccharomyces cerevisiae and adjusted between different yeast varieties, especially those that provide a significant portion of vitamins and minerals, suitable for good health.

It is important to emphasize what has been said by many suppliers: beer yeast is rich in vitamin B12, but this is only possible in the case of a reaction with bacteria. It contains folic acid, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, niacin, riboflavin and thiamine, which can improve the functioning of the nervous system.

Some suppliers handle yeast and offer versions in the form of capsules, powder or in combination with other nutrients. Yeast must be consumed by the recommendation of a health professional.

Nutritional properties of beer yeast

Beer yeast is rich in highly digestible proteins having all the essential amino acids for life:

• The histidine.
• Arginine.
• Lysine.
• Tryptophan.
• Alanine.
• Leucine
• The isoleucine.
• Cysteine
• Glycine.
• Aspartic acid.
• Glutamic acid.
• Phenylalanine.
• Threonine.
• Methionine.
• Tyrosine.
• Valine.
• Proline.
• Serine, etc.

It also contains sugars, auxins (T complex), vitamins (especially of group B) and minerals:

• Phosphorus.
• The iron.
• Potassium.
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Silicon
• The copper.
• Zinc.
• Selenium.
• Chrome.
• Aluminum.

It also contains considerable amounts of lipids (stearin, palmitin, aracinic acid), lectins, many sterols (ergosterol and zymosterol) and enzymes or diastases (zimases, invertin, maltase, phosphatases, etc.).

Brewer's yeast has the action of a:

• Immunostimulant.
• Antitumor, probiotic.
• Antianemic.
• Digestive.
• Hepatoprotective.
• Analgesic.

Nutritional information for a teaspoon of brewer's yeast (3g):

• Energy: 10 calories.
• Carbohydrates: 1.1 g.
• Proteins: 1.4 g.
• Fat: 0.1g.
• Fibers: 0.9 g.

Benefits of beer yeast

The fermentation properties of brewer's yeast support the development of drinks and pasta, but its health action may be greater, acting against conditions that require treatment and attention. Its most common use is for vegetarians, who are always looking for nutritional supplements. The commercial version is subject to a pasteurization process that further optimizes its properties.

Effects on glucose, diabetes and appetite

Brewer yeast in the diet can help reduce anxiety about sweets and gain weight control. This benefit is achieved through the part of the chromium contained in the yeast, this nutrient is very effective in the balance of the insulin of the body, preserving in a healthy way the blood sugar levels and reducing the probability of diabetes. It even helps those who already have to deal with this disease. The chromium contained in brewer's yeast is compatible with the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, converting them into energy for the main activities. Studies indicate that average consumption of 9 grams per day can reduce sugar levels by more than 40%. For diabetics, adding yeast to the diet can help reduce the dose of insulin administered.

Weight control

The safest way to lose weight is to diet. Consuming brewer's yeast does not lose weight as such, but increases fiber intake and this can be beneficial for losing pounds. The average intake of 30 grams of fiber per day can optimize the burning of calories. Beer yeast is rich in protein and fiber, which contributes to the sensation of fullness and induces the consumption of fewer calories.

For weight loss, brewer's yeast should be consumed in moderation to maintain control over the number of calories. It can be combined with vegetables and fruit salads. The combination with a protein source can also be of interest, to obtain a low-fat, high-functionality meal.

In case of excessive consumption, yeast can cause weight gain. By eating 3 tablespoons of yeast, 95 calories are added to the daily menu.

Stimulates intestinal function

Some people are worried about the swelling and discomfort caused by the irregular functioning of the intestinal flora. This factor can negatively affect the body of those who have difficulty controlling their weight. Beer yeast can support the strengthening of the mucous membrane present in the intestine, which prevents the performance of infectious bacteria that can negatively affect the functioning of the body.

Strengthens the immune system

When the body is stronger and more resistant to external interference, it will allow greater security for the performance of daily activities. The benefits of yeast can help the immune system, as it can be effective in providing vitamins, proteins, amino acids, essential folic acid, selenium, thiamine, manganese, zinc and many more .

Selenium is one of the main contributors to this benefit because it acts as an antioxidant and is very functional in preventing damage from free radicals. In addition to containing a very low percentage of fat, yeast can act against bacteria, also acting in the prevention of pathogens.

Cancer prevention

It is said that brewer's yeast can help prevent cancer, after several studies, it has been reported that brewer's yeast has an agent that can prevent negative interference in the chromosomes. The proteins present in it may be responsible for safer cell division.

Stimulates the digestive system

It has been said that the benefits of yeast can reach the large intestine, but its importance is not limited to that. Its nutritional composition can bring a strengthening and a better performance of the digestive system. Yeast is rich in good bacteria and even probiotics, which can prevent or reduce certain problems, such as diarrhea, that prevent the proper digestive process.

Fights PMS symptoms

Brewer's yeast is also used against the symptoms of PMS, reducing the possibility of bloating, mood swings and appetite, and minimizing the impact of one of women's main enemies: colic.

Improves the skin

Acne affects not only teenagers, but also adults, which creates discomfort and low self-esteem. What few know is that brewer's yeast can reduce the impact of acne because it contains B vitamins, which help balance nutrient levels and reduce the possibility of inflammation that leads to lesions skin. Yeast beer can reduce the likelihood of skin cancer.

Heart health

Cholesterol can also be better controlled when incorporating yeast into meals. It can act on the bad cholesterol, called LDL, and combined with a regular exercise routine, the benefits of yeast can be optimized. Not only is there a reduction in LDL, but also an increase in HDL, which is the good cholesterol. The risks of heart disease become less pronounced and can even prevent the onset of heart attacks and strokes.

Strengthens the respiratory system

As several components of beer yeast affect the immune system, generating better resistance to adversity, the respiratory system can be strengthened. Yeast can help fight colds and flu that interfere with routine, especially in case of allergies and wet seasons.

Regulates the functions of the thyroid gland

Nutritionists generally recommend the use of yeast for cases of hypothyroidism. It is very suitable for restoring the normalcy of this gland and its basic functions.

Side effects of brewer's yeast

Yeast is generally safe, but some people may have yeast allergies and breathing problems. In these cases, they may even experience difficulty breathing, tightness and chest pain, hives and rashes.

In the case of people with diabetes, yeast can increase the effect of drugs for diabetics, causing hypoglycemia. That is why, those who take diabetes medications, it is better to avoid yeast or ask the doctor for the correct taking of it.

It can also cause nausea and excess gas in healthy people. If, on the other hand, you have suffered from colitis, irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease, the yeast can again relieve the symptoms.

Before consuming beer yeast, consult an expert.

How to consume beer yeast?

Beer yeast can be eaten mixed in salads, juices, smoothies or directly in the water. It is not recommended to cook it because it loses a large part of its beneficial substances. The concentrate can also be found in the form of capsules, liquid or powder.

What is the recommended daily amount?

For adults, the recommendation is 1 to 3 teaspoons a day. If they are capsules, follow the orientation of the label because the amount of yeast per capsule varies with the product.

Sources

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov :Beneficial Effect of Brewers' Yeast Extract on Daily Activity in a Murine Model of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
[2] https://draxe.com : More Than a Beer Ingredient: 8 Brewer’s Yeast Benefits
[3] https://www.selfhacked.com : 15 Surprising Benefits of Brewer’s and Nutritional Yeasts
[4] https://www.livestrong.com : Benefits and Side Effects of Brewer's Yeast