Brewers Yeast - Myths and Benefits

Introduction

Every infant needs breastfeeding in the initial growth stage, and every mother is ready to take several measures to ensure that her child gets essential nutrients through her breast milk. Issues with breast milk can raise several questions and concerns in the nursing mother's mind, which can be tempted to try every possible remedy to help her produce enough breast milk. Galactagogues are believed to help resolve breast milk supply issues and the consumption of brewer’s yeast while breastfeeding.

What Is Brewer’s Yeast?

Brewer’s yeast is a species of yeast that is often used as an energy booster, a protein supplement, and an immunity enhancer. It is found in bread, beer, and over-the-counter nutritional supplements. These nutritional supplements, like brewer’s yeast, packed full of vitamins and minerals, include,

• Selenium.

• Potassium.

• Iron.

• Chromium.

• Thiamine.

• Riboflavin.

• Niacin.

• Magnesium.

• Biotin.

• Folic acid.

• Pantothenic acid.

• Pyridoxine.

How to Use Brewer’s Yeast?

Brewer’s yeast is available in a variety of forms, that includes powder and tablets. It is also a key ingredient in bread and beer. According to norms, not more than one drink is advisable per day while breastfeeding. Brewer’s yeast acts as a supplement that may be useful to the infants. Brewer’s yeast acts best when started with a low dosage. Observe the side effects and then gradually increase as tolerated. Smaller doses and working up to three tablespoons per day can be taken. It is also available in the form of swallowed pills, and if not, it can also be added to powdered yeast in some of the lactation-boosting recipes.

How Does Brewer’s Yeast Affect Breastfeeding?

Brewer’s yeast is an ingredient that is used in the production of bread and beer. In cases of breastfeeding, it is considered a galactagogue. Galactagogue is a substance that promotes breast milk production. Some people feel that it helps increase the milk supply. It is a fact that the efficacy of galactagogues like brewer’s yeast is ambiguous. More research and studies are required to analyze the effects of available galactagogues on the production of breast milk.

What Are the Benefits of Brewer’s Yeast?

Brewer’s yeast has a high level of digestible protein, vitamins, and minerals. This yeast helps in increasing a healthy milk supply for breastfeeding mothers. Some benefits of brewer’s yeast beyond just helping the milk supply include:

• Helps in lowering blood sugar levels.

• Nourishes skin and hair.

• Boosting energy levels.

• Helps in replenishing ingredients that help to stay healthy, balanced, and energized to produce milk for the baby.

• If an individual is prone to yeast infection, it is advisable not to consume it.

What Are the Side Effects of Brewer’s Yeast for Breastfeeding?

Brewer’s yeast acts as a nutritional supplement and is considered to be safe for breastfeeding. It is generally well-tolerated by young mothers and little infants as it passes into the infant's body through breast milk. The probably dangerous drug interactions of any supplement prevent the side effects. The doctor or the lactation consultant should know about the medication, herb, or supplement that a mother consumes. Though the side effects of this supplement are mild as they include the following:

• Yeast Infection in the Vagina: Brewer’s yeast does not always have the same effects on everyone who consumes it. If this happens and leads to yeast infections, it is advisable to avoid consuming it.

• Diarrhea, Abdominal Upset, or Gas Formation: If the child develops some colic-like symptoms or feels irritated, one should instantly decide to reduce the intake of brewer’s yeast. In cases of stomach issues or suffer from diarrhea, one must stop taking it. Brewer’s yeast is traditionally known to be the best resource for nursing mothers to increase the supply of milk during lactation. Pills that consist of brewer’s yeast for breastfeeding are very common to find and are available in powder and tablet. This type of wonder supplement only suits if it suits the body well.

• Hypoglycemia Complications of Diabetes: Brewer’s yeast can lower the blood sugar to a dangerously low level, and sometimes it interferes with the medications that one may be taking.

One should avoid brewer’s yeast if:

1. An individual has an allergy to yeast.

2. If an individual is diabetic, it lowers blood sugar.

3. If an individual has Crohn's disease.

4. If an individual has a weakened immune system.

5. If an individual is taking MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) for depression.

6. If an individual is taking antifungal medications.

What Are Other Natural Galactagogues?

The other types of natural galactagogues that are believed to boost milk production are:

Herbal galactagogues include:

• Garlic - Garlic is believed to increase breast milk supply

• Dandelion - It is generally accepted as a safe galactagogue.

• Nettle - Stinging nettle includes calcium, iron, A, C, K, and several B vitamins. It helps in treating inflammation, high blood pressure, and enlarged prostate.

• Fenugreek - It is believed to be an herb that helps in promoting milk production.

• Ginger - Ginger is used for many ailments. It helps in treating nausea, vomiting, cold, and flu and also helps in milk production.

Fruits and vegetables like:

• Fennel.

• Dark and green leafy.

• Spices.

• Chickpeas and lentils.

• Oatmeal.

• Raw nuts.

• Green papaya.

• Carrots and beets.

• Yams and sweet potatoes.

Other methods to boost milk production in cases where the body responds most readily to a holistic approach. These methods include:

• Find the best feeding position for the baby.

• Avoid smoking.

• Avoid tight tops and bras.

• Gently squeeze the breast as the baby is drinking.

• Try more frequent feedings to encourage a stronger supply.

• Skin-to-skin contact as much as possible to promote lactation and oxytocin hormones.

• Do not get discouraged if there is difficulty in finding a solution. What efforts the new mom takes is best for the baby.

Conclusion

Taking brewer’s yeast as a supplement is considered safe. But like most things, it is better to consult a pediatrician or a healthcare provider before consuming anything while breastfeeding. If a mother is concerned about milk supply, consult a lactation consultant. The consultant can help identify why the milk supply is low, and this helps create a plan to encourage production. Feed the baby as often as possible. Breastfeeding is often harder than expected, enjoy snuggles, and remember that milk can only offer tremendous benefits.