Brewer’s yeast is named so because it comes from the same fungus that’s used to ferment and make beer – Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
It is important to understand however that the yeast used for brewing is live while the brewer’s yeast commonly known as a nutritional supplement is deactivated. That means the microorganisms have been killed off through pasteurization or drying but the proteins, vitamins and minerals are still there.
The Superhuman Food Pyramid recommends moderate use of brewer’s yeast because, while it is a good source of nutrients, its very nature carries some possible risks.
Read on to find out the pros and cons of brewer’s yeast and its appropriate use in your quest to Become Superhuman…
Brewer’s Yeast Benefits:
Brewer’s yeast is a typical favorite of those practicing a vegetarian diet because of the proteins and numerous B-complex vitamins that it provides. These vitamins are usually found in beef, fish and poultry. Regardless of dietary practice, this type of yeast can still adequately supply you with the following nutrients:
- Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
- Niacin (Vitamin B3)
- Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5)
- Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
- Biotin (Vitamin B7 or Vitamin H)
- Folic acid (Vitamin B9)
Besides those listed above, brewer’s yeast contains a notable amount of chromium. This mineral is found to decrease blood sugar levels. It can therefore potentially aid those suffering from diabetes by improving tolerance to glucose and reducing the need for insulin.
One study tested a yeast-based supplement on premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and found it to be effective. The dietary supplement used is called Sillix Donna and it is composed of the same microorganism that is brewer’s yeast.
Brewer’s Yeast Risks:
Some individuals are simply allergic to yeast. Sensitivity can be such that any yeast-based products, from beer to nutritional yeast supplements, could trigger the symptoms of stomach irritation, headaches and itchiness.
Other types of medical conditions that increase sensitivity to yeast are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. These are the more severe types of inflammatory bowel diseases. If you happen to have a weak digestive system or are prone to such problems, you need to be extra cautious about taking brewer’s yeast.
Although chromium’s positive effects on blood sugar levels have been studied, it is still quite possible to consume too much of this mineral and go in the opposite direction of dangerously lowering blood sugar. This is a condition known as hypoglycemia. It would be safer to consult a doctor to figure out the safe amount of brewer’s yeast to include in your diet, especially if you’re already diabetic.
Brewer’s Yeast Practical Uses:
Brewer’s yeast is commonly available in powdered form or as small flakes. It is also said to have a flavor similar to cheese which can give you an idea for its culinary uses.
You can for example sprinkle a moderate amount of powdered brewer’s yeast on popcorn to make your own cheese-flavored variety of this snack. Salad dressings and toppings on pasta dishes are also possible substitute uses of the flake form of this yeast.
The hydrolyzed yeast ingredient in soup mixes likely refers to brewer’s yeast. You can thus make a similar soup dish by adding a teaspoon or two in your own home-made broth.
It is often advised that brewer’s yeast be added at the end or after the food is cooked so that the heat doesn’t wipe out the B vitamins.
Since it’s a good source of proteins, you can pop two or three tablespoons of brewer’s yeast into the blender along with whatever fruit you’re using for a power shake or smoothie. This will make an excellent revitalizing beverage after a hard work out.
In the next post, I’ll tell you about the negative effects of processed sugar and why you should avoid it to succeed in your quest to Become Superhuman.
In the meantime, if you care to jump ahead, here is a complete listing of the herbs, spices and sweeteners on Superhuman Food Pyramid:
If you have questions, comments or feedback about the pros and cons of brewer’s yeast, the Superhuman Food Pyramid, this website, or other aspects of Becoming Superhuman, then leave your thoughts below, as well as any tips you have on the pros and cons of brewer’s yeast.