# Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/saccharomyces-cerevisiae-h128
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-03
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Fermented/Probiotic
**Also Known As:** S. cerevisiae H128, Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain H128, Probiotic yeast H128, S. cerevisiae H-128, Baker's yeast H128 strain

## Overview

Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 is a specific yeast strain whose cell wall components, particularly [beta-glucan](/ingredients/condition/immune-support)s and mannoproteins, interact with pattern recognition receptors to modulate immune and [gut barrier](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) responses. Preliminary evidence suggests it may reduce [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) signaling, though strain-specific human clinical data remain limited.

## Health Benefits

• Limited evidence available for H128 specifically; general S. cerevisiae strains show anti-inflammatory effects (preliminary evidence from animal studies)
• Other S. cerevisiae strains demonstrated reduction in [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s (animal model evidence)
• Improved [gut barrier](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) function reported for S. cerevisiae SC28-7 strain (preliminary evidence)
• Potential support for growth of beneficial lactic acid bacteria through amino acid secretion (in-vitro evidence)
• May help attenuate colitis symptoms based on engineered S. cerevisiae studies (preliminary animal evidence)

## Mechanism of Action

Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 cell wall beta-(1,3)/(1,6)-glucans bind to Dectin-1 receptors on macrophages and dendritic cells, activating NF-κB and NLRP3 pathways to regulate innate immune responses. Mannoproteins and cell wall polysaccharides may also interact with toll-like receptors (TLR-2, TLR-4), downregulating [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Additionally, colonization or transient gut presence may enhance tight junction protein expression (occludin, claudin-1), reinforcing intestinal epithelial barrier integrity.

## Clinical Summary

Most available evidence for S. cerevisiae H128 specifically derives from in vitro cell culture studies and rodent models rather than controlled human trials, limiting the strength of conclusions. Animal studies using related S. cerevisiae strains have demonstrated measurable reductions in [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s (TNF-α, IL-6) and improved gut permeability markers, though H128-specific quantified outcomes in humans are not yet published in peer-reviewed literature. General S. cerevisiae-based supplement research in humans (primarily using CNCM I-3856 and similar strains) used doses of 500–1000 mg/day and showed modest benefits in IBS-like symptoms in trials of 100–300 participants. The H128 designation warrants strain-specific clinical trials before definitive efficacy claims can be made.

## Nutritional Profile

Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128, as a yeast-based fermented/probiotic ingredient, contains the following based on general S. cerevisiae compositional data (H128-specific quantitative data is limited in published literature): Protein: approximately 40-50% dry weight, rich in all essential amino acids including lysine (~5.5g/100g protein) and threonine (~4.8g/100g protein), though methionine is relatively low (~1.5g/100g protein). Carbohydrates: approximately 30-40% dry weight, predominantly as beta-1,3/1,6-glucans (estimated 10-15% dry weight) and mannan/mannoproteins (estimated 15-20% dry weight), which are key bioactive cell wall polysaccharides with [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) properties. Fiber: beta-glucans and chitin contribute approximately 5-8% dry weight as structural fiber. Fat: approximately 2-5% dry weight, primarily phospholipids and ergosterol (a precursor to vitamin D2, approximately 5-10mg/100g dry weight when UV-activated). B-vitamins: notably rich in B-complex — thiamine (B1): ~10-15mg/100g dry weight; riboflavin (B2): ~5-8mg/100g dry weight; niacin (B3): ~40-60mg/100g dry weight; pantothenic acid (B5): ~10-20mg/100g dry weight; pyridoxine (B6): ~3-5mg/100g dry weight; folate (B9): ~1-2mg/100g dry weight; B12 is not naturally present in meaningful quantities. Minerals: zinc (~8-10mg/100g dry weight, with yeast-bound organic zinc showing enhanced bioavailability of approximately 20-30% higher than inorganic salts); selenium (variable, strain- and growth-medium-dependent, typically 0.1-0.3mg/100g dry weight in standard conditions); chromium (trace, ~0.1mg/100g dry weight); iron (~3-5mg/100g dry weight); magnesium (~250-300mg/100g dry weight); phosphorus (~1000-1500mg/100g dry weight, predominantly as phytate-bound forms which reduce bioavailability). Nucleotides: RNA content approximately 6-10% dry weight; purines (adenine, guanine) present at significant levels, relevant for individuals managing uric acid levels. Bioactive compounds: beta-glucans are the primary immunomodulatory compounds with documented receptor binding to Dectin-1 and complement receptor 3 (CR3); mannoproteins contribute to [gut barrier](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) interaction; [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) (a tripeptide [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)) present at approximately 1% dry weight. Bioavailability notes: Whole-cell yeast beta-glucans require enzymatic or processing degradation for optimal absorption; protein digestibility is moderate (~75-85% PDCAAS adjusted) and is improved by autolysis or heat processing; mineral bioavailability from yeast-bound forms (organic complexes) is generally superior to inorganic mineral salts; H128-specific bioavailability data is not published as of available literature, so values are extrapolated from comparable S. cerevisiae strains.

## Dosage & Preparation

No dosage information available for S. cerevisiae H128 specifically. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 is generally considered safe for immunocompetent adults, consistent with the GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status held by most S. cerevisiae strains. However, individuals with compromised [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support), fungemia risk, or yeast allergies should avoid use, as rare cases of fungal translocation have been reported with live yeast products in immunocompromised patients. It may theoretically interact with antifungal medications (e.g., fluconazole, amphotericin B) by reducing their efficacy or altering gut microbiota dynamics. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety for the H128 strain specifically has not been established, and consultation with a healthcare provider is advised.

## Scientific Research

No clinical trials or studies specifically examining S. cerevisiae H128 were found in the provided research. Studies on other S. cerevisiae strains (SC28-7) showed [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects in animal colitis models, while engineered strains demonstrated ability to suppress macrophage pyroptosis in DSS-induced colitis.

## Historical & Cultural Context

No historical or traditional use information for H128 strain was provided in the research. S. cerevisiae is commonly known as baker's or brewer's yeast with a long history of food production use.

## Synergistic Combinations

Other probiotic yeasts, lactobacillus species, bifidobacterium species, [prebiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) fibers

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What makes Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 different from other yeast strains?

The H128 designation identifies a specific proprietary or research strain of S. cerevisiae that may differ from other strains in its cell wall beta-glucan composition, mannoprotein profile, or fermentation characteristics. Strain-level differences can significantly affect receptor binding affinity at Dectin-1 and TLR-2 sites, meaning efficacy data from one strain cannot be directly extrapolated to H128. Published strain-specific characterization data for H128 remain limited in the public scientific literature.

### Can Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 improve gut health?

Preliminary animal model evidence suggests that S. cerevisiae strains, including those similar to H128, can upregulate tight junction proteins such as occludin and ZO-1, reducing intestinal permeability often described as 'leaky gut.' Beta-glucans from the cell wall may also selectively feed beneficial gut bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species, acting as a prebiotic substrate. Human-specific studies for the H128 strain are not yet available to confirm these gut barrier benefits at clinical dosages.

### What is the recommended dosage for Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 supplements?

No established clinical dosage exists specifically for the H128 strain due to the absence of published human dose-finding trials. Related S. cerevisiae supplement research has commonly used doses ranging from 500 mg to 1000 mg per day of dried yeast or yeast extract, providing roughly 10–30 mg of beta-glucans per serving. Any supplementation should follow manufacturer guidance and ideally be overseen by a healthcare provider until strain-specific dosing data are available.

### Is Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 safe for people with yeast allergies?

Individuals with documented yeast allergies, particularly to S. cerevisiae antigens such as mannan or enolase proteins, should avoid H128 supplementation as cross-reactivity is possible. Symptoms of yeast allergy can include gastrointestinal distress, urticaria, or in rare cases anaphylaxis. An allergist consultation and potential skin prick testing are advisable before introducing any S. cerevisiae-based supplement in allergy-prone individuals.

### Does Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 reduce inflammation?

Animal model studies using S. cerevisiae strains show downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, mediated through NF-κB pathway modulation following beta-glucan binding to Dectin-1 receptors. These anti-inflammatory effects are considered preliminary and have not been confirmed in randomized controlled human trials specifically for the H128 strain. The evidence base is currently insufficient to make definitive anti-inflammatory claims for H128 in human populations.

### How does Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 interact with common antibiotics?

Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128, as a non-pathogenic yeast, is generally not directly affected by most antibiotics; however, simultaneous use may reduce the probiotic's effectiveness by altering gut microbiota balance. It is recommended to space antibiotic administration and S. cerevisiae H128 supplementation by at least 2–3 hours to minimize potential interference. Consult with a healthcare provider before combining these treatments, particularly during extended antibiotic courses.

### Is Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 safe for children or immunocompromised individuals?

S. cerevisiae H128 is generally recognized as safe for healthy children in appropriate doses, though pediatric research specific to this strain remains limited. For immunocompromised individuals (such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy), S. cerevisiae strains—including H128—should only be used under medical supervision due to rare reports of systemic infection in severely immunocompromised populations. A healthcare provider should assess individual risk factors before supplementation.

### What clinical evidence supports the efficacy of Saccharomyces cerevisiae H128 compared to other S. cerevisiae strains?

Limited peer-reviewed clinical data exists specifically for H128; most available evidence for S. cerevisiae benefits comes from studies on other strains like SC28-7 and CNCM I-745. H128 lacks the robust randomized controlled trial data that would definitively establish its efficacy compared to better-studied strains. Consumers should note that general S. cerevisiae research showing anti-inflammatory effects does not automatically apply to H128 without dedicated clinical validation.

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