Due to its nutritional content, yeast in this form may increase a person’s energy, support their immune system, and offer additional health benefits.
In this article, learn about the benefits of nutritional yeast and how to incorporate it into a healthful diet.
What is nutritional yeast?
Nutritional yeast comes from a species of yeast known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae. There is another form of this yeast species, which is called brewer’s yeast. Although people sometimes use the terms interchangeably, it is essential to note that nutritional yeast is not the same as brewer’s yeast.
As the name suggests, brewer’s yeast is a by-product of the beer-making process, and it grows on hops. Manufacturers can grow nutritional yeast on a variety of sources, including blackstrap molasses, whey, and sugar beets.
Nutritional yeast is similar to the yeast that people use in baking, but it undergoes a heating and drying process that renders it inactive.
Nutritional yeast is dairy-free and usually gluten-free. As a result, it can be a useful supplement for people with food allergies or sensitivities, as well as those on restricted diets. It is also low in fat and contains no sugar or soy.
Nutritional yeast comes either in the form of flakes or as a powder. It has a savory, nutty, or cheesy flavor.
People can add it as a savory seasoning to a variety of dishes, including pasta, vegetables, and salads.
Some ways to use nutritional yeast include:
- sprinkling it on popcorn instead of butter or salt
- mixing it into risotto instead of Parmesan cheese
- making a vegan alternative to a cheese sauce, such as the one in this recipe
- as an ingredient in a vegan macaroni and cheese dish, such as this one
- stirring it into creamy soups for added nutrients
- adding it to scrambled eggs or a tofu scramble
- mixing it into a nut roast or stuffing
Nutritional yeast is available to buy in some grocery stores and health food shops, as well as online.
Are there any risks?
Despite all the benefits that nutritional yeast may offer, this supplement is not suitable for everyone. Researchers have recommended that individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), glaucoma, and hypertension avoid using nutritional yeast because it could make their symptoms worse.
People with a yeast sensitivity or allergy should also take care to avoid any exposure to nutritional yeast.
In addition, some researchers say that people with a higher risk of gout may want to avoid nutritional yeast.
Summary
Nutritional yeast is sometimes called a superfood because even a little of this high-protein, low-fat, nutrient-dense food provides a host of vitamins and minerals.
More research is necessary to confirm the benefits of nutritional yeast. However, it seems that it may help boost energy and maintain vitamin B-12 levels, as well as supporting the immune system, dermatological health, and pregnancy.
Many people also really like the taste of this nutritious food. Nutritional yeast is versatile, and people can add it to a variety of healthful dishes.
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