Yeast

Why You Need It

• complete Protein Powerhouse: It contains all nine essential amino acids your body needs.
• B-Vitamin Boost: It is naturally rich in B vitamins, essential for energy.
• Immune Support: Contains beta-glucans, which may help support a healthy immune system.
• Nervous System Health: Vital for maintaining healthy nerve function.

Deep Dive

Nutritional yeast is unique because it is often fortified, turning it into a nutrient-dense powerhouse. Its primary benefit is providing Vitamin B12, a nutrient almost exclusively found in animal products. For anyone eating a plant-based diet, nutritional yeast is often the missing link to preventing deficiency. It also provides high-quality protein that is easily digestible. The beta-glucans found in the cell walls of the yeast have been studied for their ability to stimulate the immune system, helping your body defend itself naturally. It adds a 'cheesy' flavor to dishes without the dairy, making it a heart-healthy seasoning choice.

Natural Food Sources

While nutritional yeast is a processed product derived from fermentation, it relies on natural plant substrates. However, to get these specific B vitamins naturally, you have to look at other food groups. Mushrooms (specifically shiitake) and leafy greens contain small amounts of B vitamins, but nutritional yeast is the concentrated source.

Supplementation

Nutritional yeast is a food, not a drug. It is typically sold as flakes or powder. You can add it to popcorn, pasta, soups, or salad dressings. There is no strict 'dosage,' but 1-2 tablespoons per day is a standard serving to reap the nutritional benefits. It is heat-sensitive, so add it at the end of cooking to preserve the B vitamins.