Brewer’s yeast is a product derived from the fermentation of cereals, it is notably known for being one of the main ingredients in the preparation of alcoholic beverages.
However, its use in the kitchen has become popular due to the different benefits it brings to human health.
That is why, in the following article you will be able to discover the extraordinary properties of this type of yeast, in addition, you will know the ways in which you can consume it.
What is brewer’s yeast?
It is a unicellular fungus of the genus S.cerevisiae and the species cerevisiae discovered by the French chemist Louis Pasteur in 1856. However, since ancient Egyptian times yeast has been used for the production of beer and bakery products.
In this sense, the bacteriologist and physicist also demonstrated that brewer’s yeast is obtained after the fermentation of cereals such as barley or wheat, thus making it one of the oldest in vitro cultures discovered by man.
Its recognition since ancient times is due to the fact that, unlike other types of yeast, it is completely natural. Despite having a bitter taste due to the remains of hops, it is one of the commonly used yeasts in the baking industry.
A study published in the popular science magazine of the Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí reveals that the role played by yeast in scientific, biological, microbiological and biochemical research has become essential.
This is due to the great variety of processes that are carried out from the cell that makes up brewer’s yeast, as well as the different uses that can be given to it for the development of other scientific advances.
Similarly, its high protein content of high digestibility makes brewer’s yeast the ideal complement for diets based on fiber, protein and group B vitamins.
Brewer’s yeast properties
Brewer’s yeast, being a completely natural derivative, makes it a desirable food for daily consumption and a condiment that will not only elevate your recipes, but also provide you with different properties necessary for the health of the human body.
For this reason, knowing a little more about what you can get from this food will help you get the most out of the benefits.
proteins
Between 45 and 60% of the weight of brewer’s yeast is protein, making this fungus a high protein source for athletes, people who wish to combat mental illnesses and the main ingredient in protein-based diets.
In addition, the different essential amino acids and its rapid absorption characteristic make ingesting brewer’s yeast a perfect complement for the health of your body.
vitamins
Yeast is rich in B vitamins, these are Thiamin (B-1), Riboflavin (B-2), Niacin (B-3), Pantothenic Acid (B-5), Pyridoxine (B-6), Biotin (B-7) and Folic Acid (B-9).
However, it is important to note that brewer’s yeast does not naturally contain Vitamin B12.
In this sense, group B vitamins are beneficial to improve anemic conditions, muscular weaknesses, in addition, it helps pregnant women to avoid congenital malformations in the fetus.
Minerals and trace elements
Brewer’s yeast is rich in different minerals and has different essential trace elements that help our body to develop and stay healthy.
This is how iron, selenium, sulfur, magnesium, chromium, zinc and phosphorus are the minerals present in brewer’s yeast, responsible for the formation of collagen, strengthening the immune system, regulating blood glucose in the body, among other benefits that will be highlighted later.
Fiber
Being a derivative of barley and wheat, brewer’s yeast is high in fiber.
For its part, fiber is responsible for regulating cholesterol and blood glucose levels, thus avoiding long-term heart problems.
Also, diets rich in fiber are known for their prebiotic effect, which is responsible for the stimulation of healthy bacteria in the intestinal tract that regulate problems caused by constipation.
Health benefits of brewer’s yeast
The different properties, vitamins and minerals present in brewer’s yeast make it a special ally for the body.
Here are some of the benefits of this seasoning for health.
lowers cholesterol
The organic chromium content of brewer’s yeast lowers LDL cholesterol, which is considered harmful to health, while it helps to maintain the correct levels of good cholesterol or HDL.
The functionality of chromium for the metabolization of fats and carbohydrates is considered important for the health of the organism because it reduces the risks of heart disease, also improving brain function and other bodily processes.
Regulates blood pressure
The low level of sodium and the concentration of chromium present in yeast regulate blood pressure because these properties decrease high levels of fat present in the body, which reduces the risk of heart disease.
Therefore, the moderate intake of brewer’s yeast in patients diagnosed with arterial hypertension may be beneficial as long as it is under medical supervision.
Improves the immune system
The high concentration of active nutrients that yeast has favors the immune system as this stimulates the production of phagocytes.
Considered white blood cells, they are immune cells that are responsible for eliminating dead cells, as well as surrounding and reducing microorganisms that are not suitable for a healthy body.
Increases energy and mood
Athletes usually consume brewer’s yeast for breakfast or before and after their workouts thanks to its great contribution of B vitamins and the different minerals it contains help increase energy and, in turn, the mood of your body.
Prevents cardiovascular problems
As we have mentioned before, brewer’s yeast is ideal for reducing high levels of cholesterol in the blood and fats that can clog the main veins of the body.
In turn, yeast contains linoleic and oleic acids, these substances favor the circulatory system, thus improving heart functions and reducing cardiovascular problems, especially in the elderly.
Fight hypothyroidism
Specialists recommend the consumption of brewer’s yeast to people who suffer from hypothyroidism since it regulates the activity of the thyroid gland, leading it to improve its functioning and significantly reducing the symptoms of said disease.
Regulates intestinal transit
According to research published in the US National Library of Medicine , brewer’s yeast is favorable for combating stomach upsets caused by acute stress.
In this sense, the intake of yeast regenerates the intestinal flora, helping people who suffer from the contradictions of frequent consumption of antibiotics or a poor diet.
In the same way, it combats stomach problems such as diarrhea or bloating. Notoriously improving intestinal transit thanks to the large number of probiotics that this fungus has.
Regenerates damaged tissues
The concentration of group B vitamins, together with zinc and biotin present in brewer’s yeast, create a combination that activates the metabolism and regeneration of cells that develop into healthy tissues.
That is, said yeast properties stimulate damaged tissues or wounds to strengthen, heal and heal.
Improves skin, hair and nails
The biotin present in the properties of brewer’s yeast is responsible for the regeneration of the skin, the strengthening of the nails and the healthy growth of the hair.
That is why yeast has become an important ally for women who suffer from brittle nails, damaged hair, and dry skin.
The high and varied properties that brewer’s yeast possesses mean that it is not only used to give volume to recipes in bakeries, but also prevents premature aging of the skin, hair, and nails.
How to consume brewer’s yeast?
Thanks to all the aforementioned benefits and properties, brewer’s yeast has become the natural ally of many people.
For this reason, today it is marketed in different presentations to improve the ease of obtaining these nutrients and make the intake of this food even more pleasant.
The consumption of this mushroom will depend on what it is used for. You can prepare dishes or shakes and add 1 tablespoon of brewer’s yeast, this is on average for an adult. Doses in children should be regulated and consulted with specialists.
On the other hand, brewer’s yeast can be consumed in the form of tablets, capsules, flakes or flakes, powder and also in liquid form.
However, when purchasing yeast, we recommend making sure that it is for human consumption, since it is also marketed for veterinary uses and is highly functional in animal feed.
It must be taken into account that there are presentations to be used in ferments, so ingesting it in this way can cause gastrointestinal disorders.
