Nutritional yeast: is it good for you or not? The answer is yes! Nutritional yeast has many dietary and health benefits. It also contains many antiviral and antibacterial properties in addition to the nutritional aspect.
One major benefit of this superfood, is it is one of few foods that contain a whole spectrum of B vitamins. Nutritional yeast contains high levels of Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate and Vitamin B12. These vitamins work together to provide the body more energy as well as regulate brain function. B vitamins also help create healthy skin and hair as well as promote fat burn and improve sleep. Folate is particularly great for those trying to conceive or those who are already pregnant. It helps decrease risk of birth defects and promotes the general healthy development of fetuses. Stress and certain diets can often deplete the level of B vitamins in the body, which makes supplementing them even more important.
Vitamin B12 is one of the most important vitamins found in nutritional yeast. This vitamin is found primarily in red meat and other animal products. Therefore, those that consume a primarily vegan diet can sometimes become at risk for a deficiency of this crucial vitamin. Symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency include blurry or otherwise impaired vision, excessive fatigue and sometimes a soreness of the mouth. Vitamin B12 is also very important in creating strong skin, hair and nails. A deficiency can increase unwanted effects of aging, as well as leave hair and nails brittle and dry. Vitamin B12 also regulates the digestive system which can help aid with weight loss and regulates the central nervous system, in turn reducing stress. However, keep in mind that nutritional yeast does not naturally contain Vitamin B12. Even though it is fortified, consumers are still getting the vitamin which is what is important.
Another great health benefit of nutritional yeast is its protein content. Nutritional yeast is 71 percent protein, making it a great option to help build and repair muscles after weight lifting, marathons, etc. Just one serving (typically about two tablespoons) of nutritional yeast usually contains eight or nine grams of protein. Add a little bit to foods like popcorn, hummus, scrambled eggs, potatoes and soups to name a few. Nutritional yeast contains 16 different amino acids, which is great for your brain, muscles and body as a whole. The high protein content coupled with a very low carbohydrate and fat content makes nutritional yeast a great addition to any diet. For those actively trying to build muscle, the extra protein nutritional yeast will provide can be very helpful. In addition, just one serving of this superfood provides at least four grams of fiber, which can help suppress your appetite longer as well as helps keep your body regular.
Overall, nutritional yeast is a great way to supplement your diet with protein as well as many important vitamins and minerals while keeping your carbohydrate and fat consumption levels down.
