Nutritional yeast and brewer’s yeast are different supplements with similar nutrients, including vitamin A, fiber, and folic acid. They are both good sources of protein and made from saccharomyces cerevisiae. However, they contain different amounts of B vitamins, and it is important to choose carefully. Brewer’s yeast contains chromium, which can help control blood sugar, but it does not naturally contain vitamin B12. Nutritional yeast is mild and cheesy in flavor, while brewer’s yeast is bitter and usually sold in pill form.
Nutritional yeast and brewer’s yeast have separate nutrient profiles and are produced in different ways. These two supplements contain many of the same beneficial nutrients, such as vitamin A, fiber, and folic acid. They contain different amounts of the vitamin B complex and it is important that consumers select carefully.
Nutritional yeast and brewer’s yeast are excellent sources of protein. Doctors frequently recommend these supplements for those who eat a vegetarian or vegan diet, which does not contain natural forms of animal protein. Both types of yeast are made from the fungus known as saccharomyces cerevisiae, which grows and ferments in sugar cane. Nutritional yeast is produced specifically for the purpose of becoming a nutritional supplement. Saccharomyces cerevisiae is also used by brewers to ferment their beer, and brewer’s yeast is harvested as a byproduct of this process.
Not all nutritional yeast and brewer’s yeast products naturally contain B vitamins. B vitamins include thiamin, niacin, and riboflavin, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which are important for converting different types of food into energy. These vitamins are known to increase an individual’s energy and help improve the functioning of the immune system. Brewer’s yeast does not naturally contain vitamin B12 and neither do most nutritional yeast products. Both brewer’s yeast and nutritional yeast must be fortified with it. Therefore, it is not recommended that people with vitamin B12 deficiency rely solely on nutritional yeast for this important vitamin that is vital in the functioning of the body’s nervous system and in helping to maintain healthy brain pathways.
Although lacking in vitamin B12, brewer’s yeast contains the added nutrient chromium, which cannot be found in nutritional yeast. Chromium has been shown in scientific studies to reduce the amount of glucose present in the bloodstream and may be beneficial for those with certain types of diabetes. Doctors often recommend this supplement for people with more severe forms of diabetes, in addition to regular medication, to help control blood sugar.
The unique flavor is a hallmark of nutritional yeast and brewer’s yeast. Nutritional yeast is similar to shredded cheese or a whole grain in appearance. Its flavor is mild and somewhat cheesy, making it a popular additive to popcorn, salads, and other foods for those who take it daily. Brewer’s yeast is very strong and bitter in taste, and is usually sold in pill form or as a liquid that can be added to other beverages.
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