8 Surprising Health Benefits of Marmite

It’s Packed With Vitamins

According to Shona Wilkinson, nutritionist at SuperfoodUK, Marmite is packed with B vitamins, including, niacin, riboflavin and thiamine, as well as magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron and selenium, all of which are essential for good health. They work to boost kidney and liver function, help to protect the nervous system and increase energy levels. But Dr Sally Norton, NHS consultant and weight loss specialist at VavistaLife adds: “While it’s a good source of vitamins and minerals, Marmite is also very high in salt. A spoonful on your toast is unlikely to be a problem – but be careful not to eat excessive quantities if you’re watching your salt intake.”

You Could Sleep Better

A recent study revealed magnesium can help us achieve a restful night’s sleep, and the good news is it’s abundant in Marmite. Scientists claim it relaxes the body’s muscles and calms the nerves, to help you drift off much quicker. Though you would need to eat a lot (roughly two jars) to get your recommended daily intake of 375mgs, if you spread it on your toast in the morning, you’re one step closer to reaching that target.

There Are Heart Health Benefits

Marmite’s high vitamin B1 levels suggest it could help to prevent heart disease. A study at the University of Bristol found that supplementing mice with a chemical similar to vitamin B1 called benfotiamine improved their recovery after a heart attack and lowered their risk of cardiovascular conditions. Further studies are required to see if the same theory can be applied to humans, but it seems as good a reason as any to up your Marmite intake.

It’s A Possible Hangover Cure

Drinking alcohol depletes your body of B vitamins, which can leave you feeling anxious, low and generally under the weather. A teaspoon of Marmite on toast will help to boost your levels in a flash. Sri Lankans swear by this natural hangover cure: dissolve Marmite in hot water, then add lime juice and fried onion. Good luck stomaching that after a night on the prosecco.

Use It To Fight Superbugs

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation suggests the vitamin niacin – which can be found in Marmite – can help the body fight off antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as MRSA, so tucking in can help to keep your body fighting fit. A further recent study at York University also found that Marmite’s high B12 content helps to boost red blood cells, which in turn protect the nervous system.

It Boosts Your Brain Power

The York University study also found the high concentration of vitamin B12 in Marmite could help to improve brain function and even potentially protect against neurological disorders, preventing illnesses like dementia from developing later in life.

Folic Acid Makes It Good For Pregnancy

As Shona Wilkinson explains: “Marmite is also high in folic acid, providing nearly 50% of the recommended daily allowance per serving. Folic acid works to reduce the risk of high blood pressure, increase the chance of conception and prevent birth defects.”

The Calorie Count Is Low

In each recommended 8g portion of Marmite, there's only 22 calories and under 0.5g of fat, which as toast-toppers go, is actually quite virtuous. And theoretically, because the flavour is so strong, you'll only use it sparingly. It's also vegetarian and can be used to add punch to any veggie dish. Add to chilli, tofu and veggie burgers – even lasagne tastes great with a spoonful of the black stuff and is a great way to mask the taste (if you’re not a fan) while reaping the benefits.

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