We prefer store-bought items to handcrafted and traditional. Barley water is one such health elixir that needs our full attention. Barley, or Hordeum Vulgare, is a grass that was one of the world’s first and oldest cultivated crops. It originated in Eurasia. Barley is a key crop in India. Large-scale barley cultivation occurs in UP, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab.

Barley water isn’t new. It has ancient roots all around the world. A blend of water, barley, and other natural substances was known as Kykeon in ancient Greece. Boiled pearl barley, lemon pulp, fruit juice, and sugar are the British form of barley water. Unfiltered barley water with soft-boiled grains is popular in Southeast Asia. The State, India’s version of barley water, is popular in Punjab, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh.

Barley Nutritional Facts

1 cup boiling barley comprises the following:

170 calories

5 g protein

0.5-gram fat

37 g carbohydrate

Fiber – 7 g

0-gram sugar

Barley Water Contains:

• Iron
• Folate
• Copper
• Manganese
• Selenium
• Vitamins
• Zinc

 

Barley water’s health advantages

Drinking barley water can be quite beneficial to your health in a variety of ways. The following are some of the health benefits of barley water:

 

Assist in weight loss

In addition to being an excellent source of dietary fibers and minerals, drinking barley water can help to keep your digestion and metabolism in check. It can also help you feel fuller for a longer period of time, which can help you lessen cravings. Barley water can aid in weight loss due to the fact that it digests slowly and keeps you feeling fuller for a longer period of time.

 

Excellent for UTI

When it comes to urinary tract infections, barley water is a wonder drink. Because it acts as a diuretic, it causes increased urination and the elimination of toxins from the body. Aside from treating kidney stones and cysts, barley water is a good diuretic. This drink should be consumed on a daily basis by children and adults alike until the urine infection has subsided.

Lowers blood sugar

Barley water has been demonstrated to increase gut bacterial growth-prevotella, which has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels for up to 11–14 hours after consumption. Drinking unsweetened barley water can provide you with the benefit of reducing the occurrence of blood glucose spikes. The antioxidants found in barley also aid in the regulation of blood sugar levels.

 

Possibly lowers cholesterol

Several chemicals found in barley – tools – have been shown to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and hence contribute to improved cardiovascular health. The antioxidants and fibers included in barely also contribute to a reduction in cholesterol levels in the bloodstream, as previously stated.

 

Skin-saving miracle

Few individuals are aware that drinking barley water is beneficial to one’s complexion. It provides your face with a healthy glow and makes it appear more youthful. It also helps to improve the texture of your skin and give it a more youthful appearance.

 

Controls Blood Pressure

Barley water has also been shown to have blood pressure-lowering properties. High blood pressure has long been recognized as one of the most significant risk factors for atherosclerosis, a kind of cardiovascular disease. Because barley water helps to lower and maintain normal blood pressure, it has the potential to significantly delay the onset of atherosclerosis.

Better digestion

Barley water has long been used as a traditional medicine for stomach and intestinal issues. Ayurveda considers it a digestive tonic that aids digestion. The high fiber content provides all digestive health benefits. It is also a light drink that is easy on the stomach and contains minerals that help various bodily functions.

Barley water also aids in the killing of dangerous stomach bacteria known as Bacteroides. In severe circumstances, Bacteroides might affect other organs. Also, the high dietary fiber content of barley water minimizes the risk of digestive disorders including constipation. Long-term consumption of barley water may also help lessen the risk of cardiovascular disease.

 

Safe Pregnancy

Barley water is a nutrient-dense drink that provides many health benefits for pregnant women. It aids in digestion, avoids constipation, and can even help minimize morning sickness. Most importantly, barley water is a diuretic, reducing water retention in pregnancy.

Recipe – Barley Water with Lemon

Ingredients:

1 cup pearl barley (or other similar grain)

1.5 liters of drinking water

1 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice

One tablespoon of honey, one cinnamon stick, and one root ginger (optional).

Method:

• Bring the water and barley to a boil together.
• Allow for at least 30 minutes of simmering time in the pot.
• After that, allow the water to boil.
• Using a strainer, strain the concoction.
• Depending on your preference, you can add honey, lemon juice, or ginger.
• You can keep your homemade barley water in the refrigerator for a couple of days if you want to.

 

Summary

Barley is a real superfood. Try to incorporate barley in other forms into your diet to enjoy its full potential. You can use barley grain in salads, stews, and steamed veggies, among other things. To avoid dehydration, drink no more than six glasses of barley water per day.

Barley water in excess might cause stomach irritation and intestinal discomfort in some people. Barley contains gluten. Gluten intolerance or wheat allergy sufferers should avoid barley water use. However, too much fiber might cause gastrointestinal upset.

Nutritionally, barley is a powerhouse of important nutrients. It helps to flush out pollutants and enhances general health. Keep in mind that barley water alone cannot cure all illnesses. If you have any allergic reactions or health difficulties, you should visit your doctor immediately.