Nutritional yeast may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, which is one of the most common gut disorders in the U.S. A 2015 study found that nutritional yeast consumption significantly reduced abdominal pain and discomfort in people with IBS. A meta-analysis in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found a clinically significant decrease in abdominal pain, discomfort and bloating for those regularly consuming the yeast (500 mg/day for eight weeks). They also found that stool consistency improved.

Here’s how to buy and use nutritional yeast.

Most grocery stores have packages of nutritional yeast and some even have it in bulk bins. However, if you can’t find it in stores near you, it can be easily found online.

There are plenty of recipes featuring nutritional yeast, but you can also simply add it to dishes you already cook. Here are a few examples of easy ways to work nutritional yeast into your diet:

Bottom line

Nutritional yeast can be a staple part of vegan and vegetarian diets, but that doesn’t mean it’s off-limits for omnivores. From boosting antioxidants in your diet to calming your bowels, nutritional yeast is a healthy swap for traditional cheese flavor.

(EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com.)

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