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What Is Brewer's Yeast and Garlic?

Crystal Cook
Crystal Cook

The combination of brewer’s yeast and garlic is a natural remedy that repels fleas and ticks from pets, most commonly dogs and cats. It also provides vitamins and minerals to help animals have healthy coats and skin, reduces shedding and improves the pet's immune system. It can be given as a tablet, pill or powder and some use it as a spray. Care should be taken when administrating brewer’s yeast and garlic to pets, though, because side effects can occur.

The brewer’s yeast in this combination helps to strengthen the immune system, makes pets’ coats shiny and promotes healthy skin. This common supplement is a good source of B vitamins, proteins, amino acids and trace minerals such as zinc. Garlic also helps to strengthen the immune system and, like brewer’s yeast, repels fleas and ticks. It is believed that, because of the garlic and sulfur compounds in the brewer's yeast, the pet develops a strong odor that pests dislike and avoid.

Garlic.
Garlic.

There are several methods of giving a pet brewer’s yeast and garlic, including giving it all at once or in small doses throughout the day. Tablets are a popular method because it is easy to control the dosage by cutting a tablet. The powdered form is easily sprinkled over food and makes it easier for pet owners to give brewer’s yeast and garlic to an animal that is hard to medicate. Pills are available but are not as popular, because it can be difficult to give pills to a pet. Some owners prefer to mix water with the herbs, spray the resulting liquid on the pet’s coat and brush it through, believing it has the same effects and is safer than giving the remedy internally.

Brewer's yeast.
Brewer's yeast.

Pets should be started on low doses of brewer’s yeast and garlic with the owner slowly working up to the full dose, because there are side effects that can occur. Some pets are allergic to brewer's yeast and can develop itchy skin patches while some dogs may develop bloat, a serious condition that can kill in just six days. Too much garlic can cause health problems for cats, such as damage to red blood cells and gastrointestinal problems. Brewer’s yeast and garlic should be given to cats no more than every other day. This remedy should be given to diabetic pets only under the direct supervision of a veterinarian, because brewer's yeast reduces the pet's ability to produce insulin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is brewer's yeast and how is it different from other yeasts?

Some pet owners add brewer's yeast and garlic to their dog or cat's diet to repel fleas and ticks.
Some pet owners add brewer's yeast and garlic to their dog or cat's diet to repel fleas and ticks.

Brewer's yeast is a byproduct of the beer-making process, consisting of the microorganism Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Unlike baking yeast, which is cultivated to help dough rise, brewer's yeast is known for its nutritional content, including B-vitamins, chromium, and protein. It's inactive, meaning it won't cause fermentation in foods.

Can brewer's yeast and garlic benefit my pet's health?

Giving a dog the tablet form of brewer's yeast may be ineffective against fleas and ticks.
Giving a dog the tablet form of brewer's yeast may be ineffective against fleas and ticks.

Yes, both brewer's yeast and garlic have been touted for their health benefits for pets. Brewer's yeast is rich in nutrients that can support your pet's skin, coat, and overall health. Garlic, in very small amounts, may have immune-boosting properties. However, garlic can be toxic to pets in larger doses, so it's crucial to consult a veterinarian before adding it to your pet's diet.

How does brewer's yeast benefit human health?

Brewer's yeast is a nutritional powerhouse for humans, offering a significant source of B-vitamins, which are vital for energy production and brain health. According to the University of Michigan, it also contains selenium, potassium, and iron, which are essential minerals for various bodily functions, including immune system support and anemia prevention.

Is there any scientific evidence supporting the use of garlic as a health supplement?

Garlic has been studied extensively for its potential health benefits. Research suggests that garlic can contribute to cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as noted by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Its active compound, allicin, is also believed to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Are there any side effects associated with taking brewer's yeast or garlic supplements?

While brewer's yeast is generally safe for most people, it can cause gas, bloating, or headaches in some individuals. Garlic supplements, on the other hand, may lead to bad breath, body odor, and digestive upset. They can also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, so it's important to consult a healthcare provider before use.

Can brewer's yeast and garlic help repel fleas in pets?

Some pet owners use brewer's yeast and garlic as natural flea repellents. The theory is that thiamine (vitamin B1) present in brewer's yeast and certain compounds in garlic can create an odor on the pet's skin that repels fleas. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited, and garlic must be used cautiously due to its potential toxicity to pets.

Discussion Comments

candyquilt
Brewer's yeast and garlic does exactly what it's supposed to do -- repel fleas and ticks. This doesn't mean it treats a flea infestation or completely protects from it.
SteamLouis

@fBoyle-- I don't think there is any danger in the cat and dog supplements and treats that contain brewer's yeast and garlic. When your vet said no to garlic, he must have meant raw or cooked garlic in foods. The garlic in brewer's yeast and garlic supplements is different.

By the way, do you think that the oral and topical medications and shampoos that kill fleas and ticks on pets are safe? Those are full of chemicals! At least this supplement is all natural. I much prefer to give this to my pets than give them chemicals.

fBoyle

I know brewer's yeast is beneficial for cats. It's included in many cat foods and treats. But isn't garlic bad for cats?

When I first adopted my cat, I asked the vet what I can and cannot give her. He said not to give her anything with garlic, onion, spices and sugar.

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    • Garlic.
      By: tospark
      Garlic.
    • Brewer's yeast.
      By: Stephanie Frey
      Brewer's yeast.
    • Some pet owners add brewer's yeast and garlic to their dog or cat's diet to repel fleas and ticks.
      By: UJac
      Some pet owners add brewer's yeast and garlic to their dog or cat's diet to repel fleas and ticks.
    • Giving a dog the tablet form of brewer's yeast may be ineffective against fleas and ticks.
      By: absolutimages
      Giving a dog the tablet form of brewer's yeast may be ineffective against fleas and ticks.