Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is a cereal grain and a member of the grass family. It's a tall grass with a hairy stem and produces spikelets at the head. The spikelets are arranged in a herringbone pattern, with each spikelet having a long, thin awn.
Barley is a staple food for humans and other animals, and it's one of the oldest crops.
It's high in fibre and is used in foods and to brew alcoholic beverages. The fibre in barley may lower cholesterol, blood sugar, and insulin levels. It may also slow stomach emptying, which could help to control appetite.
Barley is also known as jaw in India. It's the fourth most important cereal crop after rice, wheat, and maize.
Barley is technically a refined grain, but it's healthier than other refined grains because some of the bran may still be present.
Some studies report that the nutrient profile of barley water may contribute to kidney and liver health. It may also prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Why is barley good for you?
Barley is high in fibre, especially beta-glucan, which may reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It may also aid in weight loss and improve digestion. Whole-grain, hulled barley is more nutritious than refined, pearled barley. It can be substituted for any whole grain and easily added to your diet.
Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is a cereal grain and a member of the grass family. It's a tall grass with a hairy stem and produces spikelets at the head. The spikelets are arranged in a herringbone pattern, with each spikelet having a long, thin awn.
Barley is a staple food for humans and other animals, and it's one of the oldest crops.
It's high in fibre and is used in foods and to brew alcoholic beverages. The fibre in barley may lower cholesterol, blood sugar, and insulin levels. It may also slow stomach emptying, which could help to control appetite.
Barley is also known as jaw in India. It's the fourth most important cereal crop after rice, wheat, and maize.
Barley is technically a refined grain, but it's healthier than other refined grains because some of the bran may still be present.
Some studies report that the nutrient profile of barley water may contribute to kidney and liver health. It may also prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Why is barley good for you?
Barley is high in fibre, especially beta-glucan, which may reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It may also aid in weight loss and improve digestion. Whole-grain, hulled barley is more nutritious than refined, pearled barley. It can be substituted for any whole grain and easily added to your diet.
