Health

Does Brewer’s Yeast Lower Cholesterol?

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January 10, 2015

A look at the potential benefits of brewer’s yeast, particularly as a treatment for high cholesterol.

About Brewer’s Yeast

People with high cholesterol are interested in the possibility that brewer’s yeast may be a useful addition to their cholesterol management regimen.

Aside from its use in the production of beer, brewer’s yeast can be used as a dietary supplement, particularly because of its high content of chromium, protein, selenium, and B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9 – not B12). It is made from the one-celled fungus Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

It is believed, based on some studies, that brewer’s yeast may help lower “bad” cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels and triglycerides, while raising your “good” cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels.

Use For Cholesterol

Science research dating back decades has attempted to show a connection between consumption of brewer’s yeast and the improvement of cholesterol levels. While some studies have shown positive results, not all studies have shown a link between ingestion of brewer’s yeast and reduced cholesterol. See the extensive list of studies cited by the University of Maryland link below.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center:

A few studies suggest that brewer’s yeast may help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels in the blood and raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels. Researchers aren’t sure whether that is due to the chromium in brewer’s yeast or another substance, and not all studies have found positive results.

Other Benefits

WebMD provides a list of possible benefits, potential side effects, and known interactions. However, it is noted that evidence correlating brewer’s yeast with cholesterol reduction is lacking.

Possible Side Effects

Allergic reaction – Particularly in those sensitive to yeast.
Exacerbation of Crohn’s disease
Gas
Headache
Stomach discomfort

Potential Interactions

Brewer’s yeast may interact with Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI’s) taken for depression and might interact with medications used for fungal infections. It is also not recommended for children or nursing mothers.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for cholesterol benefits is 1 to 2 tablespoons per day, added to food or dissolved in water. Although tablets are available, the powdered form appears to be the preference for most people. This could be in part because a “serving size” of 500mg tablets of brewer’s yeast is typically 8 tablets. Taking 8 to 16 tablets a day is probably undesirable for most people.

Bitter Taste and Beer Odor

Brewer’s yeast has a bitter taste, so mixing it with food or drink may not be palatable for everyone. If you wish to use the powdered form, you may want to mix it with something that has a strong flavor to offset the bitter taste. Some manufacturers offer a “debittered” product which reduces the bitterness, which may also remove some nutritional value. There is also a “beer smell” which may be unpleasant to some people. For those unable to handle the bitter taste or beer smell, tablets may be preferable.

Where Can I Find Brewer’s Yeast?

Brewer’s yeast can easily be found online and in health stores. Most brands only cost about $10 to $20. We checked at a local GNC, and found both powder and 500 mg tablets on the shelf.

Bottom Line

Brewer’s yeast is safe for most people, and may provide some medical benefits, including a possible reduction in cholesterol. After checking with your doctor, you may want to consider adding it to your daily cholesterol reduction regimen to see how it works for you. Keep in mind that the taste and smell are not for everyone.

Updated January 10, 2015
Originally published May 2013