Side Effects & Safety Brewer's yeast is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth short-term. A specific brewer's yeast product (EpiCor by Embria Health Sciences) has been safely used in doses of 500 mg daily for 12 weeks. Other brewer's yeast has been safely used in doses of 500 mg or 1000 mg daily for 12 weeks. In some people, brewer's yeast can cause headache, stomach discomfort, and gas (flatulence).



Not enough is known about the safety of long-term use of brewer's yeast. Stick with short-term use. Special Precautions & Warnings: Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking brewer's yeast by mouth if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.



Yeast allergy: People who are allergic or sensitive to yeast might experience itching and swelling.



Crohn's disease: Brewer's yeast can make Crohn's disease worse. Don't use brewer's yeast if you have Crohn's disease.



Diabetes: Taking brewer's yeast that contains chromium can lower blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes and take medications to lower your blood sugar, adding brewer's yeast might make your blood sugar drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar carefully.



Weakened immune system: There is some concern that brewer's yeast from supplements might increase the risk of blood infections in people whose immune systems are weakened. This includes people with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or people who have taken medicines to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ. To be on the safe side, talk with your healthcare provider before taking a brewer's yeast supplement if you have a weakened immune system.



