Nutritional Yeast: Health Boosting Superfood
Savoury yeast, also known as nooch, is a popular food item used for vegan recipes to deepen the flavours and thicken in gravy & sauces. This superfood item is famous as nutritional yeast and is used as a seasoning on popcorn, salad, toast etc. The reason to add the word ‘nutritional’ along with ‘yeast’ is due to its high nutritional value including various vitamins, minerals, protein and antioxidants. Such a plant-based superfood offers a wide range of potential health benefits. From boosting energy and lowering cholesterol levels to protecting cells in the body, its potential benefits are endless.
Nutrient-packed yeast comes in the form of powder as well as flakes. Also, it is famous as a vegan cheese substitute due to its cheesy, savoury, nutty and umami taste. Nutritional yeast is a deactivated form of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a species of yeast commonly used in baking and brewing. In this write-up, we will explore the numerous reasons why nutritional yeast deserves a spot in your pantry and on your plate.
Potential Health Benefits of Nutritional Yeast
Here are some of the benefits of such a savoury yeast that has countless health benefits to offer.
1. High Nutritional Value
This superfood is rich in various vitamins, minerals, proteins and other essential nutrients. Only 5 grams or 2 tablespoons of such yeast contains:
● Protein: 3 grams
● Fat: 0 grams
● Carbs: 2 grams
● Sugar: 0 grams
● Fibre: 4% of the Daily Value (DV)
● Iron: 2% of the DV
● Potassium: 2% of the DV
● Vitamin B2: 246% of the DV
● Vitamin B3: 109% of the DV
● Vitamin B6: 212% of the DV
● Vitamin B9: 59% of the DV
● Vitamin B12: 313% of the DV
2. Rich Antioxidants
Nutritional yeast is a rich source of antioxidants, which helps to fight against free radicals in the body. If not treated on time, these free radicals in the body can damage cells and lead to chronic disease. Not only do antioxidants fight free radicals but also eliminate toxins from the body. Adding antioxidant-rich yeast to regular meals can reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and macular degeneration.
3. Prevents from Infection
Such plant-based rich protein food items contain carbs which have antifungal and antibacterial properties. This in results, saves the body from infections. Also, such antioxidants activate immune cells and boost energy levels to fight against foreign invaders.
4. Boost Immunity
The nutritional profile of yeast makes it an excellent choice for bolstering your immune system. It contains beta-glucans, which are types of polysaccharides known for their immunity boosting. Beta-glucans help stimulate and modulate immune cells, which promotes a strong defence against pathogens. Consuming nutritional yeast helps reduce the risk of infections and improve overall immune function.
5. Lower Cholesterol Level
The fibre beta-glucans present in nooch helps lower cholesterol level, which improves heart health. It is also a low-glycemic food item that contains mineral chromium. Such minerals help regulate blood sugar or glucose which is the primary source of energy in the body. Maintaining both good amounts of blood sugar and cholesterol levels in the body lowers your risk for diabetes as well as heart disease.
6. Aids Digestion and Gut Health
Nutritional yeast aids digestion and supports the digestive system to break down food for energy, tissue repair and growth. It is a rich source of dietary fibre, which aids in proper digestion and improves your gut microbiome. Also, the fibre present in yeast acts as a prebiotic, which helps good gut bacteria to survive in the body. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for nutrient absorption, immune functioning, and overall well-being.
7. Boost Energy and Relief Stress
Nutritional yeast is an excellent natural source of Vitamin B Complex, including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid. All of these vitamins are crucial for producing energy, reducing fatigue and promoting healthy metabolism. Apart from this, vitamin B complex is known to support the nervous system and help manage stress levels. You can witness that consuming such yeast powder or flakes in your regular diet can make you feel more energised.
8. Rich In Proteins
Nutritional yeast is rich in proteins and provides all the essential amino acids that your body can not produce itself. Furthermore, such healthy acids repair and build muscle tissues in your body. So, all vegans and vegetarians can reap the benefits from such superfoods and balance their daily protein intake. This makes it a perfect addition to plant-based diets for athletes & people looking to build muscles.
Conclusion
Nutritional yeast is a versatile and health-boosting superfood that deserves a place in your kitchen. Its powerful nutritional content, umami flavour, and various health benefits make it an excellent addition to your regular diet. Whether you're looking to enhance recipe flavours, boost your immune system, or increase your energy levels, nutrient-packed yeast provides everything, whatever is needed.
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