Brewer's yeast is derived from a type of fungus known as saccharomyces cerevisiae. Used in the brewing industry, it's also taken as a nutritional supplement in powder, capsule or tablet form to provide chromium, selenium and B-complex vitamins. Although relatively safe, there are side effects ranging from minor to serious that should be considered before use.
Allergic Reactions
Certain people experience severe allergic reactions to brewer's yeast. Symptoms of this condition include breathing problems, tightness in the throat or chest, chest pain, or skin problems such as hives, rashes or swelling. Individuals with these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately or take diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or use an epinephrine injection like the Epi-Pen.
Diabetes
Although the chromium present in brewer's yeast can help treat blood sugar, brewer's yeast supplements contain a biologically active form of chromium that may increase the effects of diabetes medications, leading to hypoglycemia, according to a 1998 issue of the American Journal of Medicine. Diabetics should avoid using brewer's yeast unless cleared to do so by their doctor.
Digestive Disorders
Brewer's yeast can cause stomach discomfort, bloating and excess gas in otherwise healthy individuals. However, patients with irritable bowel disease, colitis or Crohn's disease have shown an increased sensitivity to brewer's yeast that can exacerbate symptoms, according to Dr. Ronald Hoffman, Medical Director of the Hoffman Center in New York City.
Drug Interactions
Several medications have negative interactions with brewer's yeast. Chief among these are monoamine oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) used to treat depression. The tyramine in brewer's yeast can cause a hypertensive crisis in patients on MAOIs, with a rapid rise in blood pressure that can lead to a heart attack or stroke, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Brewer's yeast can also reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics such as amoxicillin, ampicillin, cephalosporins, penicillins, sulfonamides and tetracyclines, as well as antifungals such as fluconazole, terbinafine and itraconazole.
Other Side Effects
In rare cases, brewer's yeast can cause migraine headaches, as reported in a study from 1998 by the American Botanical Council. Individuals with osteoporosis who take brewer's yeast supplements might also need calcium supplements because of the high levels of phosphorus in brewer's yeast. Proper bone density requires a balance between calcium and phosphorus levels. The effects of brewer's yeast on a fetus are still unknown, and pregnant or nursing women are urged to avoid brewer's yeast supplements.
Member Comments