Brewer's Yeast For Diarrhea

You may know brewer's yeast as an ingredient for baking. But brewer's yeast may also have some health benefits, ranging from preventing colds and flu to treating intestinal infections. However, perhaps it is most well-studied for its ability to prevent diarrhea.

What Is Brewer's Yeast?

Brewer's yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is usually used in baking and is a byproduct when making beer. It contains many nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, zinc and magnesium. Brewer's yeast and another similar yeast called Saccharomyces boulardii are probiotics. Probiotics contain organisms, like yeast and bacteria, that have health benefits. They can be thought of as "good" bacteria or yeasts because they aid in keeping the digestive tract functioning properly.

What Forms Does Brewer's Yeast Come In?

You can purchase brewer's yeast at a natural foods store or your local grocery store. It is usually sold as tablets, flakes, powder and liquid. Brewer's yeast can also be found as an ingredient in foods such as fermented milks.

Can Brewer's Yeast Alleviate My Diarrhea?

Brewer's yeast has been touted as being effective for preventing diarrhea. Researchers found that its ability to fight diarrhea may be because it aids in making enzymes that can fight the toxins from diarrhea-causing bacteria. Many studies have looked at the effects of brewer's yeast for diarrhea. For instance, researchers found that taking Saccharomyces boulardii five days before departing on a trip and continuing it while traveling significantly reduces the chance of getting traveler's diarrhea.

Another study looked at brewer's yeast in the prevention of diarrhea caused by taking antibiotics. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is caused by a bacterium called Clostridium difficile. Researchers found that Saccharomyces boulardii might be helpful in protecting against reoccuring infections with Clostridium difficile. However, the yeast was not helpful in preventing first-time infections.

Is Taking Brewer's Yeast Safe?

Brewer's yeast is considered safe. You may have bloating or gas, but this is normal. Do not take brewer's yeast if you are allergic to yeast, are prone to yeast infections, are severely sick or have diabetes. As with any medicine or dietary supplement, talk with your doctor first.

How Much Should I Take?

Follow the directions on the label for the appropriate dosage. In general, you can take 1 or 2 tbsp. a day. If you take the powder form, you can mix it in juice or water or in your food. If you are taking brewer's yeast to prevent diarrhea caused by taking antibiotics, be sure to take brewer's yeast before you take your antibiotics, as well as a few days afterwards. Do the same before traveling to prevent traveler's diarrhea. If you are considering taking brewer's yeast, talk with your doctor first to make sure it is safe for you to take, as well as to find out the dosage that is right for you.