Barley is also known as jau, common Barley, grain Barley, and cereal Barley. This cereal is not new, but is gaining attention due to its list of nutrients and their health benefits. In comparison with other cereal crops, including wheat, rice and maize, Barley grains are rich in dietary fibre (such as β-glucan) and tocols, which are beneficial for us. These chemicals have been shown to prevent hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. A popular way to consume Barley is to drink it. Barley Water or jau water, a traditional drink cherished for its numerous health benefits, has been a part of our diets for centuries. Made from Barley grains, this nutritious drink is not only refreshing but also packed with essential nutrients. Incorporating Barley Water into our daily routine can enhance our overall well-being. From aiding in weight loss to improving digestion and promoting healthy skin, the benefits are numerous. Let’s delve into the remarkable Barley Water health benefits, Barley Water nutrition and discover how it can be a valuable addition to our diet.
Health Benefits of Barley Water
Barley is an old grain with so many fitness benefits. Drinking water in routine helps weight loss, lowering blood stress, blood LDL cholesterol, blood glucose in Type 2 diabetes and preventing colon cancer. It contains fibre, protein, nutrients B and E, the minerals selenium, magnesium and iron, copper, flavonoids and anthocyanins. Beta-glucan in Barley water binds to bile acids inside the intestines thereby reducing cholesterol levels. It also relieves constipation, cleanses harmful colonic bacteria and decreases the incidence of colonic Cancer. Here are the other advantages of drinking barley water.
1. Help in Weight Loss
Barley Water is a great weight loss drink for those who aim to lose weight. Its low-calorie content combined with high fibre makes us feel satiated for longer periods, reducing the temptation to binge on unhealthy snacks unnecessarily. The fibre aids in digestion and helps regulate bowel movements, ensuring a healthy digestive system. Additionally, Barley Water can enhance our metabolism, making our body more efficient in burning calories. The detoxifying properties of Barley Water assist in flushing out toxins, which can otherwise impede our weight loss efforts. Incorporating Barley Water into our diet can therefore be a smart and natural approach to shedding extra pounds.
Also Read: Ayurvedic Diet For Weight Loss
2. Excellent for Urinary Tract Infection
For those of us down with urinary tract infections (UTIs), Barley Water offers a natural and effective remedy. Acting as a diuretic, it increases urine production, which helps flush out the bacteria responsible for infections. The soothing properties of Barley Water can reduce the discomfort and burning sensation associated with UTIs. Regular consumption of this drink can help prevent the recurrence of infections by maintaining a clean urinary tract. The anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to reducing swelling and irritation in the urinary tract, promoting overall urinary health and comfort.
3. Benefits of Barley Water in Improving Digestion
Barley Water is of great help for our digestive health. Rich in dietary fibre, it facilitates smooth bowel movements and prevents constipation, a common digestive issue. The fibre also acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which are essential for a healthy digestive system. The resistant starch, a beneficial compound in Barley Water further promotes intestinal function. Regular intake of Barley Water can alleviate symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating and gas. By improving gut health, Barley Water can enhance nutrient absorption, ensuring our body gets the essential nutrients it needs. This, in turn, supports overall well-being and digestive comfort.
4. May Reduce Blood Sugar
For those of us managing diabetes, Barley Water can be a valuable addition to our diet. Barley is a rich source of beta-glucan, a soluble fibre known for its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This fibre slows down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels after meals. Barley Water also contains resistant starch, health beneficial functional compounds that can lower blood sugar. Regular consumption of Barley Water can improve insulin sensitivity, making it easier for our body to manage glucose. By maintaining steady blood sugar levels, Barley Water can help us better control diabetes and reduce the risk of related complications, making it a healthy choice for diabetics.
5. Advantages Of Drinking Barley Water In Lowering Cholesterol
Barley Water is a great drink for heart health. The regular intake of this drink maintains a healthy cholesterol level. The beta-glucan fibre in Barley binds with cholesterol in our digestive tract, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. This process helps lower the levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and total cholesterol in our body. Barley Water also contains tocols that help lower serum cholesterol. Regular consumption of Barley Water can reduce the risk of developing heart diseases associated with high cholesterol levels. Additionally, the antioxidants in Barley Water help protect our cardiovascular system from oxidative stress, further supporting heart health and overall well-being.
Also Read: How to Reduce Cholesterol Naturally
6. Boon for Skin
Barley Water is also amazing for our skin health, thanks to its rich content of antioxidants and essential nutrients. It helps detoxify our body, flushing out impurities that can cause skin problems like acne and dullness. Regular intake of Barley Water can improve skin elasticity, making our skin look youthful and radiant. The anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritated skin, reducing redness and blemishes. By promoting overall hydration and nourishment, Barley Water ensures our skin remains healthy, clear, and glowing, making it a natural and effective addition to our skincare routine.
7. Benefits of Barley Water in Managing Blood Pressure
For those of us dealing with hypertension, Barley Water offers a natural method to control blood pressure. Rich in potassium, it helps balance sodium levels in our body, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure. The fibre content also contributes to heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of Barley Water can improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of hypertension-related complications. By incorporating Barley Water into our daily routine, we can support our cardiovascular health and maintain stable blood pressure levels naturally.
Also Read: 7 Most Important Lifestyle Changes for Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure
8. Advantages Of Drinking Barley Water For a Healthy Pregnancy
Barley Water is especially beneficial during pregnancy. It is packed with essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium, which are vital for the healthy development of the baby. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects, while iron supports the increased blood volume during pregnancy. Barley Water can also alleviate common pregnancy issues such as constipation and urinary tract infections, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable pregnancy journey. By keeping us hydrated and nourished, Barley Water supports both the mother’s and baby’s health, making it a valuable addition to a prenatal diet.
Also Read: Pregnancy Diet Chart
Nutritional Facts of Barley Water
Barley Water is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with essential nutrients, including:
- Vitamins like vitamin B-complex and vitamin C, that are crucial for energy production and immune function.
- Minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, selenium, zinc and phosphorous support various bodily functions, from bone health to muscle function.
- Barley Water also boasts a good amount of antioxidants, fibre, and proteins, making it a comprehensive drink that promotes overall health.
Its rich nutrient profile ensures that our body receives the necessary elements for optimal functioning and well-being.
Takeaway
Incorporating Barley Water into our daily routine offers many health benefits, from aiding in weight loss to promoting healthy skin and managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Its rich nutritional profile supports overall health and well-being, making it an excellent addition to our diet. By drinking Barley Water regularly, we can enhance our digestive health, maintain balanced cholesterol levels, and ensure a smoother pregnancy journey. You can also add Barley to salads, stews, and steamed vegetables in addition to drinking Barley Water. With so many benefits of barley water, this is the drink that we can have daily, but remember not to drink more than six glasses of Barley Water per day because Barley Water is a diuretic. It can make you pee more frequently if you have it in excess. Also if you are allergic to gluten or have celiac disease, avoid drinking it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To make Barley Water, boil 1 cup of Barley grains in 3 to 4 cups of water for 30-40 minutes. Strain the mixture and allow it to cool. You can add lemon juice or honey for flavour. Store it in the refrigerator and drink it throughout the day.
No, it’s best to boil the Barley Water. Boiling helps extract the nutrients from the Barley grains into the water, making it more nutritious.
The best time to drink Barley Water is in the morning on an empty stomach for maximum benefits.
Avoid adding too much sugar or artificial flavours to Barley Water. Also, if you have gluten intolerance or celiac disease, you should avoid Barley as it contains gluten.
Yes, we can take Barley Water at night. It is a light and refreshing drink that can be consumed at any time of the day.