brewer's yeast

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is commonly used in brewing beer and making bread.  

Fermentation Action:  

One of the most critical roles of brewer’s yeast is its ability to carry out fermentation. During beer brewing, brewer’s yeast converts the sugars in malted barley into alcohol (ethanol) and carbon dioxide through alcoholic fermentation. This action is essential for producing beer with its desired alcohol content and carbonation. 

Bread-Making Action:  

In bread making, brewer’s yeast ferments with a slightly different outcome. Yeast consumes sugars in the dough, producing carbon dioxide gas and alcohol. The gas gets trapped in the dough, which causes it to rise and expand. As the bread bakes, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind the light, airy texture we associate with bread. 

Spectrum: 

• Fermentative Properties: brewer’s yeast is known for metabolizing sugars and converting them into ethanol and carbon dioxide, as mentioned above. This makes it a valuable microorganism in brewing industries for producing alcoholic beverages. 
• Nutritional Properties: brewer’s yeast is a rich source of various nutrients, including proteins, vitamins (such as B-complex), and minerals (such as potassium and phosphorus). As a result, it is often used as a nutritional supplement for humans and animals. 
• Probiotic Effects: brewer’s yeast is a probiotic because it contains beneficial microorganisms that can support gut health when consumed appropriately. Probiotics help maintain a balanced gut microbiota, aiding digestion and supporting the immune system. 
• Flavor Profile: brewer’s yeast can enhance the final product’s flavor. In beer brewing, different yeast strains can produce unique flavor profiles, influencing the taste and aroma of the beer. 
• CO2 Production: The carbon dioxide produced during fermentation is essential for beer carbonation and bread rising. It creates effervescence in beer and gives the bread a light and fluffy texture. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Bloating 

Excess gas 

Headaches 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication 

• Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to yeast or yeast products. Allergic reactions may vary in severity, and symptoms may include skin rash, itching, hives, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal discomfort. If you suspect you are allergic to brewer’s yeast, avoid its consumption and seek medical advice. 
• Gout: brewer’s yeast is naturally rich in purines, which can be metabolized into uric acid. Excessive uric acid levels can contribute to gout, a painful condition characterized by joint inflammation. If you have gout or a history of gout attacks, it’s best to avoid consuming large amounts of brewer’s yeast. 
• Autoimmune Disorders: brewer’s yeast can potentially exacerbate symptoms of autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or multiple sclerosis. The yeast may stimulate the immune system, increasing inflammation and worsening the condition. 
• Migraine Headaches: Some individuals with a history of migraines may experience worsened symptoms after consuming brewer’s yeast. This could be due to certain compounds found in the yeast, such as tyramine, which can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals. 
• Interactions with Medications: brewer’s yeast may interact with certain medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and antidiabetics. If you take any prescription drugs, consult your healthcare provider before adding brewer’s yeast to your diet. 
• Candida Infections: brewer’s yeast is not the same as Candida yeast, but some people with a history of candidiasis (yeast infections) may be concerned about consuming brewer’s yeast. Limited evidence suggests that brewer’s yeast could exacerbate candidiasis, but it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns. 
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant condition and breastfeeding women should use caution when considering brewer’s yeast supplements, as their safety during these periods has not been extensively studied. 

Caution 

• Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to brewer’s yeast or yeast products. Before using brewer’s yeast for the first time, perform a patch test on the tiny area of the skin and wait for any allergic reactions. Avoid using brewer’s yeast altogether if you have a known yeast allergy. 
• Dosage: If you use brewer’s yeast as a nutritional supplement or in any form, follow the recommended dosage guidelines. Excessive brewer’s yeast may lead to unwanted side effects or medication interactions. 
• Interaction with Medications: brewer’s yeast may interact with certain medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and antidiabetic drugs. If you are on any medication, consult your healthcare provider before using brewer’s yeast to avoid potential adverse reactions or reduced effectiveness of medications. 
• Gout: Due to the purine content in brewer’s yeast, individuals with gout or a history of gout attacks should be cautious and limit their intake. High purine levels can contribute to increased uric acid and worsen gout symptoms. 
• Autoimmune Disorders: If you have any autoimmune disorder condition, consult your healthcare provider before using brewer’s yeast. The yeast might stimulate the immune system, potentially exacerbating autoimmune conditions. 
• Migraine Headaches: Some individuals with a history of migraines may experience worsened symptoms after consuming brewer’s yeast. If you are prone to migraines, be cautious when using brewer’s yeast and monitor how it affects you. 
• Candida Infections: While brewer’s yeast differs from Candida yeast, some individuals with a history of candidiasis may be cautious about using brewer’s yeast supplements.  
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant condition and breastfeeding women should exercise caution when considering brewer’s yeast supplements. The safety of brewer’s yeast during these periods has not been extensively studied. 
• Quality of Product: Ensure you use a reputable and high-quality brewer’s yeast product, whether for baking, brewing, or supplementation. Check the label for any additives or potential allergens. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

US FDA pregnancy category: Not assigned. 

Lactation:   

Excreted into human milk: Not known. 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• <b>Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) has diverse pharmacological properties due to its rich nutritional content and fermentative capabilities. As a nutritional supplement, brewer’s yeast is a valuable source of protein, B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, and B12), and essential minerals, contributing to overall health and supporting various metabolic processes. Additionally, its probiotic potential may positively influence gut health.

In brewing, brewer’s yeast plays a critical role in alcoholic fermentation, converting sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide. While generally safe for most individuals, caution should be exercised for those with allergies, gout, or autoimmune disorders, and potential drug interactions should be considered. Overall, brewer’s yeast offers various applications in nutrition, baking, brewing, and potential probiotic use, making it a versatile and beneficial pharmacology and human health agent. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

Mechanism of action: The mechanism of action of brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) can be understood by looking at its primary functions in different applications: 

• Brewing Beer: In brewing, brewer’s yeast plays a crucial role in alcoholic fermentation. Yeast cells metabolize the sugars in malted barley or other grains and convert them into alcohol (ethanol) and carbon dioxide. This fermentation process is facilitated by specific enzymes within the yeast cells, primarily zymase. 
• Baking: In baking, brewer’s yeast acts as a leavening agent. Yeast cells ingest the sugars in the dough and produce carbon dioxide gas through alcoholic fermentation. The gas gets trapped in the dough, which causes it to rise and expand. During baking, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind the light, airy texture of the baked goods. 
• Nutritional Supplement: brewer’s yeast is a nutritional supplement due to its rich protein content, B-complex vitamins, and minerals. The B vitamins and minerals are cofactors in various metabolic pathways, supporting energy production, cellular function, and overall health. 
• Probiotic Effects: brewer’s yeast, when consumed in appropriate amounts, may act as a probiotic, contributing to gut health. While it is not the same as the beneficial bacteria found in traditional probiotics, brewer’s yeast contains certain compounds that can positively influence the gut microbiota and support digestion. 
• Flavor and Aroma: In the context of brewing beer, different strains of brewer’s yeast can produce unique flavor profiles, contributing to the taste and aroma of the final beer product. The various by-products of yeast metabolism during fermentation can impart characteristic flavors and notes to the beer. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

When consumed as a dietary supplement or in food products, brewer’s yeast is believed to be readily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Its components, such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals, can be absorbed by the small intestine. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, the components of brewer’s yeast can be distributed throughout the body by the bloodstream. B vitamins, for example, are involved in various metabolic processes and can be distributed to different tissues and organs where needed. 

Metabolism 

The metabolic fate of brewer’s yeast components varies depending on their chemical nature. Proteins from brewer’s yeast would undergo digestion and be broken down into the amino acids, which can then be utilized for various cellular processes, including protein synthesis. 

Elimination and Excretion 

Excretion of brewer’s yeast components would occur through various routes. Unused or excess vitamins and minerals are typically excreted in the urine. The breakdown products of proteins and other nutrients may be excreted in urine or feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) can be administered in various forms, depending on its intended use.  

• Dietary Supplement: brewer’s yeast is available as a dietary supplement in powder, flakes, or tablets. It is often used as a nutritional supplement due to its rich protein content, B-complex vitamins, and minerals. The recommended dosage for dietary supplements can vary, so following the instructions on the product label. 
• Baking: brewer’s yeast is commonly used to make bread, rolls, and other baked goods rise. It is usually added to the dough along with other ingredients and helps produce carbon dioxide gas during the fermentation process, leading to the expansion of the dough. 
• Beer Brewing: brewer’s yeast is a critical component in the beer brewing process. It is added to the wort (malted barley liquid) to initiate fermentation, converting sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide, producing beer. Different strains of brewer’s yeast can influence the flavor and aroma of the final beer. 
• Animal Feed: brewer’s yeast is also used as a supplement in the animal feed due to its nutritional value. It is commonly given to pets, livestock, and poultry to enhance their diet with essential nutrients. 
• Probiotic Use: Some people consume brewer’s yeast as a probiotic, believing it can support gut health and digestion. It is typically taken as a supplement, following the recommended dosage on the product label. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: brewer’s yeast 

Why do we use brewer’s yeast? 

brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) has several uses in different industries and applications thanks to its nutritional profile and fermentative properties.  

• Brewing Beer: brewer’s yeast is essential in beer brewing. It ferments the sugars in malted barley or other grains, producing alcohol (ethanol) and carbon dioxide. The type of brewer’s yeast used can influence the beer’s flavor, aroma, and character. 
• Baking: brewer’s yeast leaven bread and other baked goods. When added to the dough, it consumes sugars, producing CO2 (carbon dioxide) gas, which causes the dough to increase and create a light, airy texture in the finished product. 
• Nutritional Supplement: brewer’s yeast is a rich source of protein, B-complex vitamins (such as B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, and B12), and minerals (such as chromium, selenium, and potassium). As a result, it is used as a nutritional supplement to enhance the diet with these essential nutrients. 
• Animal Feed: brewer’s yeast is added to animal feed to provide a nutritional boost for pets, livestock, and poultry. It is especially beneficial for animals that require additional protein and B vitamins in their diet. 
• Probiotic Use: Some people consume brewer’s yeast as a probiotic to support gut health. While it is not the same as the beneficial bacteria found in probiotics, brewer’s yeast contains some compounds that can positively affect the gut microbiota. 
• Culinary Uses: brewer’s yeast can be used in various dishes as a seasoning or flavoring agent.  
• Nutritional Yeast: Nutritional yeast, a type of inactive brewer’s yeast, is commonly used as a dairy-free cheese substitute and nutritional seasoning. It is popular among vegans and those with dairy allergies. 
• Nutritional Beverages: brewer’s yeast can be used in nutritional beverages and smoothies to add protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them more nutrient-dense.