Most people have heard about the multiple health benefits of drinking beer in moderation . However, what is perhaps less well known is that one of its components, brewer’s yeast, has multiple properties that can be applied in many different ways.

The yeast in beer is considered in its version as a nutritional supplement (which is not exactly the same as the one used in the production of the alcoholic beverage) one of the elements that has the greatest number of nutritional components.

The fungus Saccharomyces cerevisiae from which it is made comes from the fermentation of malt, and has many healthy properties for the body, which has led to its frequent use as a dietary supplement.

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10 benefits of beer yeast consumption

Some of the properties that can convince you to consume brewer’s yeast are the following.

1. Has multiple nutritional benefits and is good for growth

Brewer’s yeast is a component rich in protein, fiber, iron and vitamins . Specifically, it is one of the foods with the highest proportion of vitamin B, which is not stored naturally in the body and must therefore be acquired through nutrition.

All these components are very useful for the production of various hormones and produce the energy necessary for the maintenance of the body, as well as for its growth and good health.

2. Provides energy

Its high content of vitamin B2, amino acids and minerals means that brewer’s yeast provides a high amount of energy . It is advisable to take it in the morning at breakfast for this reason. It also helps to combat asthenia, lack of motivation, anaemia and nutritional deficiencies.

3. Produces a decrease in cholesterol

The components of brewer’s yeast allow its regular consumption to reduce the level of high-density cholesterol (the so-called bad cholesterol ), as well as triglycerides.

4. Prevents constipation

Since in addition to the above elements this supplement contains a high level of probiotics, brewer’s yeast is also helpful in regulating the intestinal transit . It has a large amount of fiber, so it can be used to manage situations of constipation. It contributes to the repair of the walls of the intestine and its flora.

5. Good in diabetes mellitus and hypertension

Given that yeast does not contain sugars or large amounts of sodium, this dietary supplement is very useful for maintaining stable blood pressure , in addition to being helpful for nutritional and energy intake in subjects who have restricted certain food groups, intolerances or problems with metabolism, as in the case of diabetes.

6. Contributes to healing

As mentioned above, beer yeast is rich in nutrients. Among them is biotin, an element of great relevance for the regeneration of injured tissues .

7. Strengthens the immune system and heart

In addition to energizing the body, the various components of yeast cause a strengthening of the immune system , thanks to the contribution of energy and resistance. It also maintains a strong heart and artery system, and its essential fatty acid content means it can prevent cardiovascular problems.

8. Useful against hypothyroidism

Brewer’s yeast has been shown to contribute to the proper maintenance of the thyroid , improving its functionality in cases of hypothyroidism.

9. Strengthens nails, hair and skin

The consumption of this substance, especially due to its contribution of vitamin B2, contributes to the care of skin, hair and nails , improving the texture, strength and hydration. It prevents skin ageing and facilitates the growth of healthy hair and nails.

10. Improves motivation and mood

The energy contribution of its consumption facilitates an improvement in the capacity of human beings to be motivated . This induces a better behavioural functioning, as well as a greater facility for the establishment of strategies and action plans. Similarly, it is considered that it can produce an improvement in mood.

Before taking it, take your precautions

Although its administration is usually not a problem, it is recommended to consult a doctor and/or pharmacist about the convenience of taking it and the doses to be used .

Due to its high purine content this substance is contraindicated in subjects with gout, nephritic colic or during lactation (although other experts differ in the latter case).

Bibliographic references:

  • Souza Goebel, C. and others (2013). “Saccharomyces cerevisiae infection.” Ibero-American Journal of Mycology.
  • Papadia C, Di Sabatino A, Corazza GR, Forbes A (February 2014). “Diagnosing small bowel malabsorption: a review”. Intern Emerg Med.
  • Walker, L. J.; Aldhous, M. C.; Drummond, H. E.; Smith, B. R. K.; Nimmo, E. R.; Arnott, I. D. R.; Satsangi, J. (2004). “Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA) in Crohn’s disease are associated with disease severity but not NOD2/CARD15 mutations”. Clinical and Experimental Immunology 135 (3): 490-6.