New publications
Preparations
Brewer's yeast
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Brewer's yeast is used for medicinal purposes due to its rich composition of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other biologically active substances. In medicine, they can be used in the form of food supplements or dietary supplements to maintain health and prevent various diseases.
Below are some of the possible medicinal uses of brewer's yeast:
- To boost the immune system: Brewer's yeast contains B vitamins, which play an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system. They also contain beta-glucans, which can stimulate the immune system and help the body fight infections.
- To improve digestion: Due to its content of B vitamins and protein, brewer's yeast can promote healthy digestion and metabolism. They also contain prebiotics, which can support healthy gut flora.
- To support healthy skin, hair and nails: Brewer's yeast contains biotin (vitamin B7) and other vitamins that may contribute to skin, hair and nail health. Biotin plays an important role in the growth and strengthening of hair and nails.
- To support cardiovascular health: Some studies show that brewer's yeast may help lower blood cholesterol levels and support healthy cardiovascular health.
- For increased energy and stamina: Brewer's yeast contains B vitamins, which play an important role in the body's energy metabolism. Therefore, they can help increase energy and stamina.
When choosing and using brewer's yeast for medicinal purposes, it is important to pay attention to its quality and composition, as well as to follow the recommendations of a doctor or pharmacist regarding dosage and method of administration.
Indications Brewer's yeast
- Improve skin, hair and nails: Brewer's yeast contains B vitamins, selenium and other trace elements that are essential for healthy skin, hair growth and nails.
- Digestive Support: Brewer's yeast can help restore normal gut flora, improving digestion and helping with conditions such as dysbiosis.
- Immune system boosting: Due to its high beta-glucan content, brewer's yeast may help strengthen the immune system and increase the body's resistance to infections.
- For weight control and blood sugar reduction: Brewer's yeast can help control appetite and blood sugar levels due to its chromium and fiber content, making it a useful addition to diabetic diets and for weight loss.
- Improved energy metabolism: The B vitamins found in brewer's yeast play a key role in metabolic processes, converting carbohydrates, fats and proteins into energy.
- Cardiovascular Support: Some studies indicate a positive effect of brewer's yeast on blood cholesterol levels and heart health.
- Prevention of nutrient deficiencies: Brewer's yeast can be used to prevent or correct deficiencies of B vitamins and other important micronutrients, especially in vegetarian and vegan diets.
Release form
- Powder: This form of brewer's yeast is often used to add to food or drinks. The powder can be mixed with water, juices, smoothies, or added to culinary dishes. It is a convenient way of consumption for those who want to control the dosage on their own.
- Tablets or capsules: Brewer's yeast in tablet or capsule form is a convenient alternative for those who prefer precisely dosed supplements. This option works well for people with active lifestyles or those who want to simplify supplementation.
- Liquid extracts: Liquid forms of brewer's yeast are also available on the market and can be used to add to food or beverages. Liquid extracts are quickly absorbed by the body and may be preferred by some users.
- Wet yeast: A less common form, wet brewer's yeast can be sold in specialty health food stores or used in food manufacturing. They require storage in the refrigerator and have a shorter shelf life than dry forms.
Pharmacodynamics
- Source of vitamins and minerals: Brewer's yeast is rich in B vitamins (including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12) and contains vitamin H (biotin), vitamin E, minerals (e.g. Potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc), amino acids and other nutrients. These components are essential for metabolism and ensuring normal body function.
- Improved digestion: Brewer's yeast contains enzymes such as amylase and protease, which can help improve digestion and assimilation of food.
- Maintaining a healthy gut microflora: Live cultures of brewer's yeast may help maintain a healthy gut microflora, which is important for normal digestive and immune function.
- Antioxidant Properties: Some components of brewer's yeast, such as vitamin E and amino acids, have antioxidant properties that may help protect the body's cells from oxidative stress and related diseases.
- Increase Energy and Endurance: The rich composition of brewer's yeast may help increase energy and endurance by improving metabolic processes and supplying the body with energy resources.
- Improve skin, hair and nails: Biotin, found in brewer's yeast, plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails, so consuming it can help improve the appearance and quality of these tissues.
- May have antifungal effects: Some studies have shown that brewer's yeast may have antifungal properties, which may be helpful in treating certain fungal infections.
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: The bioavailability of vitamins and minerals from brewer's yeast may vary depending on their form and composition. For example, some components may be better absorbed in the intestine than others.
- Distribution: Once absorbed, nutrients from brewer's yeast can be distributed throughout the body via the circulatory system.
- Metabolism and excretion: Most nutrients from brewer's yeast can be metabolized and excreted from the body through the urine or through the intestines.
Dosing and administration
The following are general guidelines, but it is important to follow the directions on the product packaging and your doctor's recommendations.
Powder:
- Dosage: The usual recommended dose of brewer's yeast powder for adults is 1-2 tablespoons (about 10-20 grams) per day. It can be added to smoothies, juices, yogurt or other dishes.
- Directions for use: The powder should be mixed well with liquid or food before use.
Tablets or capsules:
- Dosage: Dosage recommendations may vary depending on the concentration of active ingredient in the tablet or capsule, but generally for adults it is 2-6 tablets or capsules per day divided into several meals.
- Directions for use: Tablets or capsules are taken whole with water, preferably during or after meals to improve absorption.
Liquid forms:
- Thedosage and method of application of liquid forms of brewer's yeast can vary significantly, so you should carefully read the instructions on the package.
Important Notes:
- Start with a small dose and gradually increase it to gauge your body's response, especially if you've never taken brewer's yeast before.
- Brewer's yeast contains gluten, so it should be avoided by people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
- People with yeast sensitivities should be careful, as brewer's yeast can cause an allergic reaction.
Use Brewer's yeast during pregnancy
The use of brewer's yeast in foods is generally considered safe during pregnancy because it is alcohol-free and high in nutritional properties including B vitamins, proteins, minerals, etc. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to brewer's yeast. If a pregnant woman has a known allergy to yeast, foods containing yeast should be avoided.
- Product quality: It is important to choose quality brewer's yeast from trusted manufacturers to avoid possible impurities or contaminants.
- Precautions: Standard food hygiene and safety regulations should be followed when using brewer's yeast in cooking.
- Doctor's Tip: If a pregnant woman has any concerns about consuming brewer's yeast, especially in the form of dietary supplements, it is advisable to discuss it with a doctor.
Contraindications
- Allergic reaction: Some people may develop an allergic reaction to the constituents of brewer's yeast, such as proteins or other components. This may manifest as a skin rash, itching, redness of the skin, swelling of the face or respiratory tract.
- Hypersensitivity: Some people may experiencegastrointestinal discomfort after consuming brewer's yeast, such as abdominal bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation.
- Sodium issues: Brewer's yeast may contain a significant amount of sodium. People who suffer from sodium-related conditions such as hypertension or heart failure may need to limit their sodium intake, so they should be cautious when consuming brewer's yeast.
- Diabetes: Brewer's yeast can raise blood sugar levels, which can be problematic for people with diabetes. They should consider this when incorporating brewer's yeast into their diet.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Sometimes brewer's yeast can be contaminated with bacteria or contain spores, which can be dangerous for pregnant women or nursing mothers.
- Drug Interactions: Brewer's yeast may interact with certain medications, so people taking any medications should discuss this with their doctor before use.
Side effects Brewer's yeast
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to brewer's yeast, manifested as a skin rash, itching, redness or swelling. In rare cases, anaphylactic shock may develop, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Gastrointestinal disorders: Some people may experience gastrointestinal disorders such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, or heartburn.
- Migraines and headaches: Some people may experience headaches or migraines after consuming brewer's yeast.
- Risk of Beer Yeast Addiction: Brewer's yeast may contain purine, which can lead to increased levels of uric acid in the blood, which can worsen the condition if you have gout or elevated uric acid levels in the blood.
- Drug Interactions: In some cases, brewer's yeast may interact with certain medications, which may alter their effectiveness or safety.
Overdose
- Digestive Disorders: Excessive amounts of brewer's yeast can lead to diarrhea, abdominal bloating, gas and other digestive disorders.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to the constituents of brewer's yeast, which can manifest as itching, skin rashes, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Water-salt balance disorders: Brewer's yeast contains a certain amount of minerals such as potassium and magnesium. An excess of these in the body can cause water-salt imbalances, which can lead to heart and kidney problems.
- Excess B vitamins: Brewer's yeast is rich in B vitamins, and an excess of them can cause hypervitaminosis, symptoms of which may include nausea, vomiting, nervousness, and other discomfort.
Interactions with other drugs
- Drugs absorbed through the intestines: Vitamins and minerals from brewer's yeast may compete with the absorption of other drugs, especially when taken at the same time. For example, brewer's yeast may affect the absorption of drugs containing iron, calcium, or zinc.
- Medications that affect the digestive system: Because brewer's yeast contains a variety of nutrients, taking large amounts of it may affect the effects of medications that affect the digestive system, such as proton pump inhibitors or antacids.
- Medications affecting the cardiovascular system: Some vitamins and minerals from brewer's yeast may interact with medications affecting the cardiovascular system. For example, potassium found in brewer's yeast may interact with diuretics or some antihypertensive medications.
- Drugs that increase the risk of photosensitivity: Some components of brewer's yeast may increase the risk of photosensitivity, so taking it may potentially increase this effect when used concomitantly with other drugs that also increase the risk of photosensitivity.
- Medications that affect mental status: Some vitamins from brewer's yeast, such as vitamin B6, can affect the nervous system and interact with medications that affect mental status.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug " Brewer's yeast" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.