Introduction: What is Nutritional Yeast and What Does it Do?
Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that is popular among vegans as an alternative to cheese. It has a cheesy flavor, making it an ideal topping for salads, popcorn, and other meals. But what does nutritional yeast do? Is it really good for you? In this article, we’ll explore the nutritional value of nutritional yeast, its potential health benefits, and how to incorporate it into everyday recipes.
How to Use Nutritional Yeast in Your Diet for Maximum Health Benefits
Nutritional yeast can be used in many different ways. Here are a few ideas on how to use nutritional yeast in your diet for maximum health benefits:
Adding Nutritional Yeast to Salads
Nutritional yeast makes a great topping for salads. It adds a delicious cheesy flavor without all the fat and calories of cheese. Sprinkle a tablespoon of nutritional yeast on top of your favorite salad for a tasty, nutritious meal.
Using Nutritional Yeast as a Cheese Substitute
Nutritional yeast is a great substitute for cheese in vegan dishes. It has a similar flavor and texture, making it a perfect addition to recipes like mac and cheese or veggie burgers. Try adding nutritional yeast to your favorite vegan recipes for a delicious, healthy meal.
Sprinkling Nutritional Yeast on Popcorn
Popcorn is a healthy snack, but it can be boring if you eat it plain. Sprinkle a few tablespoons of nutritional yeast on your popcorn for a delicious, cheesy flavor. This is a great way to get extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Is Nutritional Yeast Good for You? A Comprehensive Guide
Now that you know some of the ways to use nutritional yeast, let’s take a closer look at its nutritional value and potential health benefits.
Nutritional Value of Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast is a good source of B-vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, and folate. It is also high in protein and fiber, and low in fat and calories. According to a 2019 study published in the journal Nutrients, nutritional yeast is also a good source of minerals such as zinc, selenium, and manganese.1
Potential Health Benefits
The potential health benefits of nutritional yeast include improved digestion, increased energy levels, and reduced risk of heart disease. A 2018 study published in the journal Nutrients found that nutritional yeast may help reduce inflammation and improve gut health.2 Another study from 2017 found that regular consumption of nutritional yeast may help reduce cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health.3
Potential Side Effects
Although nutritional yeast is generally safe for most people, there are some potential side effects to consider. People who are allergic to yeast may experience an allergic reaction if they consume nutritional yeast. Additionally, people with weakened immune systems should avoid consuming nutritional yeast, as it could potentially cause infection.4
How to Incorporate Nutritional Yeast into Everyday Recipes
Now that you know more about the nutritional value and potential health benefits of nutritional yeast, let’s explore how to incorporate it into everyday recipes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe
This vegan mac and cheese recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Simply cook your favorite type of pasta according to package instructions. Then, mix together vegan butter, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the sauce to the cooked pasta and stir until combined. Serve with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast on top for an extra cheesy flavor.
Veggie Burgers with Nutritional Yeast
This veggie burger recipe is a great way to add nutritional yeast to your diet. Start by combining mashed beans, oats, diced vegetables, and nutritional yeast in a bowl. Form the mixture into patties and cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Serve the veggie burgers with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Roasted Vegetables with Nutritional Yeast Topping
Roasted vegetables are a delicious and healthy side dish. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Toss your favorite vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes. Once the vegetables are done, sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Enjoy!
The Surprising Health Benefits of Adding Nutritional Yeast to Your Diet
In addition to its delicious flavor, nutritional yeast offers a variety of health benefits. Here are a few of the surprising health benefits of adding nutritional yeast to your diet:
Improved Digestion
Nutritional yeast is a great source of fiber, which can help improve digestion. Fiber helps keep your digestive system running smoothly and can help prevent constipation. Additionally, a 2017 study found that nutritional yeast may help reduce inflammation in the gut, which can lead to improved digestion.5
Increased Energy Levels
Nutritional yeast contains B-vitamins, which are essential for energy production. Consuming foods rich in B-vitamins can help boost energy levels and improve mental alertness. Additionally, studies have found that nutritional yeast may help reduce fatigue, which can further increase energy levels.6
Reduced Risk of Heart Disease
Nutritional yeast is a good source of dietary fiber, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health. A 2017 study found that regular consumption of nutritional yeast may help reduce cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health.7 Additionally, nutritional yeast is a good source of B-vitamins, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.8
Conclusion
Nutritional yeast is a popular vegan ingredient with a variety of health benefits. It is a good source of B-vitamins, protein, and fiber, and may help reduce inflammation and improve digestion. Additionally, regular consumption of nutritional yeast may help reduce cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health. For these reasons, nutritional yeast should be added to your diet for maximum health benefits.
1 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6399111/
2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6085231/
3 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28256417
4 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/nutritional-yeast#risks
5 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28256417
6 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4810115/
7 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28256417
8 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.
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