Brewer's Yeast

Brewer's yeast is a powdery substance that is added to foods like oatmeal, cookies and yogurt for nutritional benefits. According to the University of Michigan Medical Center (UMMC), brewer's yeast actually comes from a fungus called saccharomyces cerevisiae and is rich in the mineral chromium as well as several different B vitamins. Brewer's yeast has been used for many years as a nutritional supplement because of the vitamins and minerals it contains. In addition, brewer's yeast can provide some therapeutic health benefits.

Improving Cholesterol Levels

According to the UMMC, there is some evidence that supports the use of brewer's yeast daily to lower the unhealthy LDL cholesterol while raising the healthy HDL cholesterol. The mineral chromium found in brewer's yeast helps to decrease total blood cholesterol levels. Beta-glucans, which are a type of fiber that prevents the absorption of dietary cholesterol, are also found in brewer's yeast, according to the Agriculture Business Week website.

Protecting the Immune System

Agriculture Business Week states that one of the best therapeutic uses of brewer's yeast is to protect and strengthen the immune system. Specific molecules in the brewer's yeast cell actually catch toxins and prevent infections in the body. Brewer's yeast strengthens the mucous membrane of the gut, which is the body's main barrier to stop infections from occurring.

Relieving Digestion Problems

Another therapeutic use of brewer's yeast is to improve the function of the digestive system. According to Alternative Doctor, LLC, the B vitamins found in brewer's yeast strengthen the muscles needed for digestion. Agriculture Business Week states that brewer's yeast also has probiotics, which help promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the human gut. This improves digestion and decreases gas and upset stomach.

Supporting Diabetes

Supporting the disease diabetes is a therapeutic benefit of using brewer's yeast in foods or taking brewer's yeast supplements. The UMMC explains that the high level of chromium found in brewer's yeast may be able to help control blood sugar levels in the general population and reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics, who have dangerously high blood sugar levels. The chromium in brewer's yeast may also be able to improve glucose tolerance and decrease the insulin dose that diabetics require. Alternative Doctor, LLC, also states that getting 1,000mg of chromium from brewer's yeast and other foods can boost the body's insulin levels.