Description
Nutritional yeast flakes, also known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is a by-product of the beer making process. It is different from bread-raising baker's yeast and is not related to Candida albicans -- the species that causes yeast infections.
As with baker's yeast and hot ovens, the live cells in brewer's yeast are destroyed during the brewing process. However, the nutrients accumulated by the yeast remain.
Yeast is a single-cell organism and can be grown on anything sugary. It will divide approximately twenty times before it dies. These divisions themselves divide within days, as do their offspring, resulting in millions of yeast cells over a very short period of time.
Yeast typically requires the same vitamins and amino acids needed by humans. As they are grown on foods lacking in some nutrients, the yeast is forced to manufacture its own amino acids and vitamins through biochemical reactions. In the end, the yeast becomes a more complete food for those who consume it.
"Brewer's yeast" and "nutritional yeast" are two terms often used interchangeably. However, nutritional yeast refers to any yeast grown for the purpose of becoming a food supplement. It may be brewer's yeast, but can also be yeast from another species.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Nutritional yeast flakes promote sugar metabolism and help treat eczema. The high B vitamin content promotes proper nervous system function, helping relieve nervousness, and facilitates energy production, reducing fatigue.
Nutritional yeast flakes are commonly used by vegetarians and particularly vegans as a significant source of vitamin B12. This essential nutrient is found mainly in animal products. Brewer's yeast and various seaweed are the only alternatives for those following a non-meat or non-animal based diet. Also helpful when dealing with pernicious anemia (B12 deficiency).
Source
Yeast is typically grown on grain (usually barley) or sugarcane sap in the presence of B12 and other nutrients.
Optimal Absorption
Stir nutritional yeast flakes into juice, water, or soups. Sprinkle on salads, popcorn (makes an ideal -- and equally greasy -- butter substitute), cottage cheese, or yogurt, or add to casseroles and any dish containing tomato sauce. Heating nutritional yeast flakes results in a stronger flavour. Instead, add to foods as they are being served.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Do not take brewer's yeast if you have candidiasis.
If you are allergic to molds, use brewer's yeast with caution and only under the supervision of your naturopath or other health practitioner.
Due to high amounts of phosphorus in brewer's yeast, people with osteoporosis should avoid this food. High levels of phosphorus in the body may leech calcium from bones as your body attempts to maintain a 2:1 ratio of calcium to phosphorus.
Ailment / Situation Listing
See also
Brewer's Yeast
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