Breast milk is the main source of nourishment for babies, and it supplies all the essential nutrients to a baby for healthy growth and development. Hence, besides eating a well-balanced diet, several mothers may consider using brewer’s yeast when breastfeeding. However, while anecdotal evidence suggests that brewer’s yeast can help improve breast milk production, is its use during lactation safe for the mother and baby? Continue reading as we tell you more about brewer’s yeast, its safety for babies and breastfeeding mothers, and its possible health benefits and side effects.
What Is Brewer’s Yeast?
Brewer’s yeast is a fungus made from the one-celled Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is predominantly used in the brewing of alcoholic beverages, and hence its name. Brewer’s yeast is also used in making bread, although it is different from baker’s yeast. Brewer’s yeast is quite popularly used as a nutritional supplement since 52% of it is protein, and is also an excellent source of B-complex vitamins (1).
Is It Safe To Take Brewer’s Yeast While Breastfeeding?
It is not known if brewer’s yeast is safe when you are breastfeeding since there is insufficient scientific research on it. Medical experts suggest the mothers consult a doctor before having it. Before deciding to take any galactagogue, you should consider the reasons for doing so. Why do you feel that your breastmilk supply is not adequate? Analyze this and then speak with an IBCLC.
Does Brewer’s Yeast Help Improve Breast Milk Supply?
Probably. Brewer’s yeast has been traditionally used as a breast milk stimulant. Despite its long-standing use as a galactagogue, there is little scientific evidence to suggest that it works. A study found brewer’s yeast efficacy ambiguous, as it was with other galactagogues (2). While the fungus’ milk-stimulant properties have been anecdotal, lactating mothers can use brewer’s yeast as milk stimulant after doctor consultation. Do keep in mind that the effects of this yeast may vary from person to person.
What Is The Ideal Dosage Of Brewer’s Yeast During Lactation?
Health experts state that one to two tablespoons (15–30 grams) of brewer’s yeast powder a day are ideal (3). However, suggested doses may vary, and so, lactating women should consult their healthcare providers before consuming any supplements If you do not see any improvement in your breast milk even after several weeks of consumption, then it is best to stop and consult a doctor.
How To Take Brewer’s Yeast When Breastfeeding?
Brewer’s yeast is available in the form of tablets and powder. You can add the recommended quantities of the powder by adding it to preparations like cookies or have it dissolved in water. There is no fixed dosage for brewer’s yeast tablets since the content of the yeast in a tablet varies, depending on the manufacturer. So the dosage can go as high as eight tablets a day. It is best to stick to the powdered version to ensure you get the correct dosage.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Brewer’s Yeast?
Brewer’s yeast is an excellent source of vitamins and micronutrients, which eventually prevent deficiency diseases. It is also a good source of protein for those who need it in large quantities. Brewer’s yeast is known to improve some conditions like acne (1). Individuals with diabetes may show better glucose tolerance when provided with a controlled amount of brewer’s yeast daily. Below are the vital nutrients found in brewer’s yeast (4):
Protein in the form of 16 types of amino acids Chromium Selenium Phosphorus All B-complex vitamins
Brewer’s yeast is often considered a nutritional supplement for vitamin B-complex and the micronutrient selenium.
Are There Any Side Effects Of Brewer’s Yeast?
Yes. Some individuals could display an allergic reaction to brewer’s yeast. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include nausea, vomiting, skin hives with intense itching, and abdominal pain. You may also experience side effects such as a headache, bloating of the stomach, and gassiness. Severe allergic reactions can cause anaphylactic shock, where the immune system floods the body with chemicals, causing a shock, an increase in blood pressure, and narrowing air passages (breathing becomes difficult). Since brewer’s yeast has the potential to cause side effects, you should avoid it in some situations.
When To Avoid Brewer’s Yeast?
You must avoid having brewer’s yeast in the case of:
