Food 9: Nutritional Yeast
Often hailed as a vegan’s best friend for its cheesy flavor, nutritional yeast is packed with health benefits that can be particularly beneficial for IBD patients. This deactivated yeast is rich in B-vitamins, essential for energy production and overall metabolic health.
Apart from its vitamin content, nutritional yeast is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. For those with IBD, ensuring adequate protein intake can be crucial, especially during flare-ups where nutrient absorption might be compromised.
Another striking feature of nutritional yeast is its trace mineral content. Minerals like zinc, selenium, and molybdenum play a vital role in various bodily functions, including immune support and enzyme function, making nutritional yeast a holistic food choice.
Sprinkling it over salads, mixing it into soups, or using it as a seasoning, the ways to incorporate nutritional yeast into one’s diet are endless. In a nutshell, nutritional yeast, with its rich nutrient profile, offers a tasty way to bolster one’s diet, ensuring IBD doesn’t stand in the way of optimal nutrition. (9)
