Main Research Findings

Several studies have suggested that the ingredients found in sake brewing process, sake itself, and sake lees, a byproduct of sake, may have beneficial effects on health. For example, sake lees are rich in vitamin B6 and vitamin B3, and these vitamins have been shown to promote muscle and brain growth in mouse experiments. 6

Cycloartenyl trans-ferulate, a component produced during the sake brewing process, has been shown to inhibit the activity of mammalian DNA polymerase and suppress inflammation in mouse experiments. 9

In addition, membrane vesicles isolated from Lactobacillus sakei, a yeast used in sake brewing, have been shown to promote the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the gut in mouse experiments. 20

Reasons for Nutrition

Various studies have suggested that the ingredients found in sake and sake lees may have beneficial effects on human health. Sake and sake lees contain nutrients such as vitamin B complex, amino acids, and polyphenols. These nutrients contribute to the maintenance of various bodily functions such as metabolism, immunity, and nerve function.

General Nutrition

Vitamins

Sake and sake lees are rich in vitamin B complex, especially vitamin B6 and vitamin B3. 6 Vitamin B6 plays an important role in protein metabolism, while vitamin B3 is important for energy metabolism and nerve function. These vitamins have been shown to promote muscle and brain growth in mouse experiments. 6

Amino Acids

Sake lees contain various amino acids, including essential amino acids. 6 Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and contribute to the formation and maintenance of various tissues and organs in the body.

Polyphenols

Sake and sake lees contain polyphenols. 9 Polyphenols are known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The polyphenols in sake have been suggested to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. 4

Other Nutrients

In addition to vitamin B complex, amino acids, and polyphenols, sake and sake lees contain nutrients such as minerals and dietary fiber. 12 These nutrients play different roles and are important for maintaining overall health.

Nutritional Measures

Vitamin B Complex

Since vitamin B6 and vitamin B3 are abundant in sake and sake lees, you can supplement your intake of these vitamins by consuming these foods. 6

Amino Acids

Sake lees are rich in amino acids and can help supplement protein deficiency. 6 Sake lees can be used in various dishes such as miso soup and stir-fries.

Polyphenols

The polyphenols in sake and sake lees have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, so you can expect these benefits by consuming these foods. 9 However, it is important to consume sake in moderation. Excessive intake can have adverse effects on health.

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities in Studies

Multiple studies have suggested that sake and sake lees are rich in nutrients that may have beneficial effects on health.

Differences in Studies

The conclusions on the health effects of sake and sake lees vary depending on the study. This is due to differences in research methods and subjects. Therefore, more research is needed.

Precautions for Applying to Real Life

While sake and sake lees are rich in nutrients that may have beneficial effects on health, excessive intake can have adverse effects on health. It is important to consume in moderation. Also, pregnant or breastfeeding women, those undergoing medical treatment, etc. should consult with a doctor before consuming these foods.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on the health effects of sake and sake lees is not yet sufficiently comprehensive. More research is needed, especially regarding the effects on human health.

Future Research Directions

Further research on the health effects of sake and sake lees is needed. Specifically, research is needed on the effects on human health, long-term effects, and the relationship between intake and health.

Conclusion

Sake and sake lees are rich in nutrients such as vitamin B complex, amino acids, and polyphenols, which may have beneficial effects on health. However, excessive intake can have adverse effects on health, so it is important to consume in moderation. It is hoped that future research will further clarify the health effects of sake and sake lees.