Nutritional Yeast: What It Is And 5 Benefits
Yeast has played an important role in our foods for a long time. Nutritional yeast is a kind of fungus, which is a vital ingredient used in breads, beers, baking, and wide varity of other foods. Also called ‘nooch’, this article starts with exploring what is nutritional yeast, its 5 health benefits, and where to buy.
What Is Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free, vegan friendly, yeast which is popular in vegan meals. Available in powdered form, nutritional yeast is also known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae or more popularly baker’s yeast.
It can be said that nutritional yeast is an alternative to regular cheese in vegan meals since it tastes like cheese and has higher nutritional value when compared to regular cheese. Nutritional yeast is rich in nutrients lacking in vegan diets. It’s also free of gluten, soy, and sugar, making it a great dietary addition for people with food sensitivities.
Potential Benefits Of Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast has a high nutritional value providing a range if micro nutrients which are beneficial for the body. Just 2 tablespoons of serving includes:
- 8 g of protein
- 1 g of fat
- 5 g of carbs
- 4 g of fiber
Related: Boost Gut Health With These 5 High Fiber Foods.
1. Improves Heart Health
Nutritional yeast has a low glycemic index, and may help in reducing cholestrol in the body thereby supporting a healthy heart. It contains a micronutrient called chromium which helps regulate blood sugar.
2. Supports Immune System
Nutritional yeast contains beta-glucans, which are soluble fibers. Beta-glucans prove to help reduce cholestrol and may also help in supporting the body’s immune system thereby making it stronger and immune to diseases.
3. Physical Recovery
Nutritional yeast may also prove to help in physical recovery after workout. Studies have shown that nutritional yeast or “nooch” proves to help athletes recover after a training session faster and also helps in an improved mood.
4. Fights Fatigue
Vitamin B12 is the micronutrient that helps in avoiding the feeling of fatigue and tiredness. The B12 content in nutritional yeast is several times higher than the amount our body needs. Therefore, just adding a spoonful of nutritional yeast in the diet can help achieve recommended levels of B12.
5. Promotes Skin, Nails, And Hair Health
Some research suggests that nutritional yeast can combat brittle nails and hair loss. It may also help reduce acne and improve other common skin problems, particularly in adolescence.
Where To Buy Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional yeast can be bought from any grocery store or supermarket. It is also available on Amazon.