Yeast is a highly required component in special recipes such as bread and pizzas, we have all prepared these and other delicious and unique dishes, however there are various types of this component , did you know?
We are clearly talking about nutritional yeast , which contains several important properties for the body, in this article we will let you know what they are and what exactly this type of yeast is used for.
What is nutritional yeast?
This also has a scientific name, being “saccharomyces cerevisiae” in an inactive form, it is a type of yeast (different from brewer’s yeast) that comes in the form of a yellowish powder and serves as a food supplement , due to its pleasant flavor and high nutritional content.
Nutritional yeast or inactive yeast is widely used in vegan recipes, it is not fermented (as in baker’s yeast or brewer’s yeast) and works miraculously for those who are intolerant to dairy (as they may be ). cheese) or with a vegan diet. It should be noted that it is grown in the molasses of sugar cane.
Note: A study mentions the following: “Nutritional yeast recognizes the high protein value it has (40-45%), among other components that give it the quality of being able to be used as a nutritional supplement” . (1)
Properties of nutritional yeast
The properties of nutritional yeast are special and varied, this element is really a great supplement due to the diversity of compounds and a high biological value of elements, which are required by the organism in different diets. These are the main properties:
1. Vitamins and minerals
Nutritional yeast is rich in B vitamins (divided into thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, cobalamin, biotin, and pyridoxine).
As well as trace-element type minerals, with zinc being the highest (which helps the immune system fight bacteria).
These become a set to fulfill the vital functions of the organism and the immune system, some also intervene positively in the healing process, metabolism, red blood cell production, skin and hair health.
Important: According to what was analyzed in a study, it is additionally known that “B complex vitamins, being from the water-soluble group, are not stored in the body, therefore they must be replaced continuously, with the exception of vitamin B12, which is stored in the liver”. (two)
2. Proteins and other compounds
It is known that nutritional yeast has approximately 51 g of protein (those molecules made up of amino acids), which are essential for the body as they contain oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, among other important elements.
To highlight: In addition to this, it has highly relevant compounds such as fiber , carbohydrates and saturated fats (the latter does not exceed 1 gram).
All of these provide the body with energy (functioning as macronutrients) and can prevent diseases such as diabetes.
What is nutritional yeast used for?
Thanks to the chemical and nutritional properties of nutritional yeast, many benefits can be found for the body in the long term. These are the most important benefits:
1. Stimulates the proper functioning of the immune system
The functioning of the immune system is quite necessary, because it produces white blood cells that devour and eliminate bacteria or microscopic agents that infect the body.
Its potentiation is due to vitamin B (present in nutritional yeast), which is quite broad and complex. What is the purpose of group B vitamins in nutritional yeast?
Important : The purpose of vitamin B is to speed up the body’s process to obtain energy (after the food we eat) and it also has folic acid , required to create new cells in the body, supplemented by vitamin B12.
2. Boosts brain functions
Our brain controls practically many important functions for life , such as movement, speech, emotions, and processes information through the senses.
Note: That is why brain diseases are very dangerous and quite feared , especially if there is a low intake of essential proteins and minerals.
The health of the brain begins from the nervous system, where the folic acid present in nutritional yeast (from complex B) plays a fundamental role, acting as a rejuvenator and is complemented by minerals , regardless of which it is, which promote a lot messages from nerve cells to regulate neurotransmission.
3. Increase energy
Fatigue and tiredness are a great enemy of the human being, they even affect our social and work life, therefore having energy is quite essential , fortunately, there are foods with components that promote this, such as nutritional yeast.
To highlight: The organism’s body energy is released by food, where meals are transformed into nutritious substances (depending on which such food products have).
Therefore, by mixing nutritional yeast with fresh foods, nuts and healthy dishes, we can be sure that the vitamins and minerals contained in it increase the energy of the human body.
4. Contributes to weight loss
Nutritional yeast has almost no saturated fat, which is why it contributes a lot to weight loss in people with obesity problems, but is that all?
Here metabolism takes center stage, which is responsible for transforming food and fat into energy (including all its components and proteins), favoring not only weight loss, but also contributing to greater strength for the body.
5. Promotes intestinal health
By having dietary fiber, nutritional yeast is a great alternative against gastrointestinal conditions or problems related to the intestine and its mucosal health.
Note: Diets that include a lot of fiber have the advantage of preventing conditions such as hemorrhoids or the formation of bags in the colon.
As well as it favors the mucous walls, avoiding constipation and other intestinal conditions.
Important: It is necessary to remember this sentence from a study “Diet is considered an important factor as a trigger for gastrointestinal symptoms” . (3)
6. Protects the skin, hair and nails
Body health is important, every detail should not be overlooked, in this sense the components of nutritional yeast help protect the health of the skin, hair and nails.
How does this work? The vitamins of group B and Zinc are what make this great advantage possible, since the mineral zinc is present in many cells of the organism and contributes to the healing of tissues, for which we will find hydrated dermis, silky hair and fast growing nails.
How to consume nutritional yeast?
Nutritional yeast is always available in powder form, no more than 7 grams can be used, it can even be sprinkled on dishes such as salads, as well as salty or hot foods, combined with different spices (and even with cheese). It also dissolves well in liquids such as soups.
To highlight: It is important to never abuse nutritional yeast, it cannot be used with people who have health problems or who are taking medication as part of a very strict treatment, in such a case, you should always consult a doctor to verify if it is viable . include this product in your diet.
Key Findings
- Nutritional yeast is a supplement product for vegan diets, considered a superfood.
- It has a high degree of vitamins, proteins, amino acids and trace elements.
- Nutritional yeast increases the body’s energy , prevents gastrointestinal diseases and protects brain functions.
- It is available as a light yellowish powder , which can be used in different dishes or soups.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.