Health Benefits of Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast is the same species of yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, that is used to make beer, bread, or kombucha. Nutritional yeast is inactive. Nutritional yeast is made by growing S. cerevisiae on a sugar-rich molasses medium. Then, it is deactivated with heat, washed, pasteurized, dried, and crumbled.
Great Source of Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is crucial for the production of red blood cells and for the production and maintenance of myelin. Myelin is the protective insulation around your nerves. One tablespoon of nutritional yeast supplies a full day’s supply of vitamin B-12.
High in Fiber
Fiber helps our systems regulate blood sugar levels and is an important part of gut health. Fiber helps our digestive system function properly as well. Researchers have found that the nutritional yeast contains 3 grams of fiber per serving.
A Great Source of Folic Acid
Research has shown how important folic acid is for women who are trying to get pregnant or who are already pregnant. Folic acid is known to help prevent major birth defects such as spina bifida. Doctors suggest getting proper amounts of folic acid to help ensure proper cell maintenance and cell production.
Promotes Skin Health
The B vitamins found in nutritional yeast has been found to help your skin, nails and hair. It has B5 and B7 which are known to help reduce signs of aging like skin spots. Nutritional yeast also contains niacin which will improve overall skin health and may reduce chronic acne.
Helps Strengthen Immune System
Researchers have found that nutritional yeast is good for your immune system. This yeast contains compounds manna, trehalose, glutathione as well as others which are known to help the immune system. These compounds have been found in various studies to be a tool in reducing cholesterol and may even prevent some types of cancer.
Can pregnant women eat nutritional yeast?
Doctors recommend vegetarian and vegan pregnant women to add nutritional yeast to their diet to increase their B-12 and folic acid consumption.
Is nutritional yeast good for blood pressure?
Nutritional yeast can be your go-to salt swap. Nutritional yeast has zero sodium and boasts a lot of flavor.
How long can you store nutritional yeast?
If stored in a cool, dry place and properly sealed, nutritional yeast may last up to 2 years.