13/08/2023
What's on my mind?
How do barley powder work on our body?
Vitamins and minerals
Barleyโs potassium, folate, iron, and vitamin B-6 content, together with its lack of cholesterol, all support cardiovascular functions.
For example, research Trusted Source has suggested that consuming a diet rich in vitamin B-6 and folate may help reduce levels of a compound called homocysteine. Having high levels of homocysteine may increase the risk of heart disease. It is indicated that eating a diet rich in these nutrients may help reduce heart disease risk factors such as high blood pressure.
Folate and iron are particularly important for forming red blood cells and oxygenating the blood, which is important for overall heart health.
Niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, folate, iron, magnesium, and selenium all enhance the processes of cell formation, such as carrying oxygen through the blood, and the functioning of the immune system. Barley is a good source of all these nutrients.
Sodium and potassium
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommend avoiding foods that are very high in sodium, such as fast foods. Instead, consuming vegetables, fruits, grains, and other potassium-rich foods may help maintain healthy blood pressure.
Fiber
Fiber appears to boost heart health by helping manage blood pressure and controlling cholesterol levels.
More specifically, the beta-glucan fiber present in barley reduces low density lipoprotein, or โbad,โ cholesterol by binding to bile acids and removing them from the body via excretion. In fact, according to one 2008 study, consuming 3 g of beta-glucans per day from certain barley products can reduce total cholesterol by 5โ8%.
In 2008, researchers found that eating a lot of high beta-glucan pearled barley significantly reduced high serum cholesterol levels and lowered visceral fat in Japanese men. These are both risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Bone health
The phosphorus, calcium, copper, magnesium, and zinc in barley all contribute to improved bone structure and strength.
For example, zinc plays a role in bone mineralization and development. Calcium, copper, magnesium, and phosphorus, meanwhile, contribute to bone health and are essential for maintaining a strong skeletal system.
Cancer
Barley contains selenium. Getting selenium from the diet can help prevent inflammation, according to a study from 2012.
According to the National Cancer Institute , people with some types of chronic inflammation โ such as Crohnโs disease โ have a higher risk of cancer. This is because persistent inflammation can sometimes trigger the DNA changes that cause cells to divide uncontrollably.
Selenium also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells against damage caused by molecules called free radicals. This type of damage may increase the risk of cancer.
A high intake of fiber from plant-based foods such as barley may also help lower the risk of colorectal cancer, specifically.
Also, some evidence suggests that beta-glucan fiber may benefit the immune system and have anticancer effects. Some people take it as a supplement, but researchers are examining ways of incorporating it into immunotherapy treatment for cancer.
For this reason, some people believe that consuming foods that contain beta-glucans may help prevent cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm this potential health benefit.
Inflammation
Choline is another nutrient that may help reduce inflammation. Barley contains betaine, which the body can convert to choline.
Choline helps with sleep, muscle movement, learning, and memory. It also helps maintain the structure of cellular membranes, aids the transmission of nerve impulses, and assists in the absorption of fat.
Digestion, weight management, and satiety
Barleyโs fiber content helps prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract.
