Brewer's Yeast

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Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-17 (EDT)

See Also Food Supplements
Brewers yeast.jpg

Brewer's yeast comes from the single-celled fungus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae; it causes the fermentation process used in the brewing of beer. It is a rich source of many nutrients such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, chromium, and selenium. It also contains beta-glucans, ribonucleic acid (RNA), para aminobenzoic acid, and myo-inositol. Supplementation with brewer's yeast provides all of these nutrients. Brewer's yeast with high selenium content has anticarcinogenic activity whereas brewer's yeast with high chromium has antidiabetic activity. The Saccaromyces cerevisiae used in marketed supplements is dried and crushed and is no longer alive [1]

Food Sources

The following foods have the highest concentration of brewer's yeast:

beer
wine
some breads
vegemite
marmite
soy sauce

Uses

The following are the primary uses for brewer's yeast: [1]

Prescribing Considerations

The recommended dosages have not yet been established. To determine what your specific requirements are talk to your naturopathic doctor or other trained medical professional.

  • Brewer's yeast is available in powder and flake form and can be added to cooking in order to increase the nutritional value. It also comes in capsule and tablet form [1]

Safety

Brewer's Yeast is generally well tolerated.

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
  • Long-term safety has not been established and therefore supplementation form is best avoided when pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Contraindications
Individuals with hypersensitivity to any components of brewer's yeast and in those with intestinal disease. Individuals that are allergic to brewer's yeast may develop flatulence, diarrhea or nausea.
  • Drug Interactions: [1]
Contraindicated:
  • Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) Inhibitors - Concomitant use may cause hypertension.

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Hendler Sheldon S, Rorvik David (Editors) (2001) PDR for Nutritional Supplements, Medical Economics Company Inc.