Barley is a whole grain known for its nutritional value and health benefits. Also known as ‘jau’ in Hindi, this grain has been an important part of the diet in Indian households from olden times. Though some of you might wonder if barley and wheat are one and the same thing, then no, they are not the same. However, both provide essential nutrients to support the body. Adding barley to your diet is easy! You can make barley pulao, barley khichdi, or even barley dosa. But if you’re one of those who cannot spend time cooking, you can always go with barley water!
In this post, we will share how much barley water to drink in a day, its benefits, and how you can make a nutritious barley drink at home.
How Much Barley Water to Drink in a Day?
Though barley water is a healthy drink with many vitamins and minerals, you must not forget that it is also loaded with fibre. Having too much fibre can upset your stomach and cause uncomfortable symptoms. For this reason, it is better to stick to drinking 1-2 glasses of barley water in a day.
If you have never had barley water before, check with your doctor if it makes a good choice for you and how much you can consume safely. As everyone’s body reacts differently to different foods, you may start with half a glass of barley water. If you don’t notice any problem, you may gradually increase it to one glass and later to two glasses a day to reap its health benefits.
How to Make Barley Water at Home?
Making barley water is easy! With just a few ingredients, you can make a refreshing lemon barley water drink. Here’s what you will need:
- Barley (hulled or pearl variety): 2 tablespoons
- Water: 1½ - 2 cups
- Lemon juice (as required)
- Salt (as per taste)
Steps to follow:
1. Take water in a pan and place it on the stove on medium flame.
2. Add barley to it and let the two boil for around 20 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid in a glass and add salt and lemon juice as per your liking.
4. Stir well and let it cool before keeping it in the refrigerator for some time.
5. Take the chilled lemon and barley water out of the fridge and enjoy!
Barley Water Benefits for Improved Health
Provides Essential Nutrients
Barley water is a rich source of fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants. It also contains folate, iron, manganese, copper, and other vital minerals. Drinking barley water enriches the body with all these nutrients necessary for optimal functioning of the body. Plus, its fibre content is of the soluble variety and dissolves in water to provide energy.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
People with diabetes often have trouble controlling their blood sugar levels. Barley water can be a great addition to their diet as it is known to control blood sugar spikes in the body. It can also be helpful for those who have a risk of developing the condition. However, one must opt for unsweetened barley water if they are looking to keep their sugar levels in check.
Reduces Bad Cholesterol
Some studies have revealed that barley water may be helpful in reducing the levels of bad cholesterol, or LDL cholesterol, in the body. Bad cholesterol is known for causing issues like high blood pressure and heart disease. So, having barley water drink may not be a bad idea to lower your cholesterol levels.
Supports Weight Loss
Next comes the use of barley water for weight loss. The drink is full of fibre, and that makes it a good drink for those looking to lose weight. It keeps you full for a long time and prevents unnecessary snacking throughout the day. Plus, it has a low-fat content. So, even though it may add healthy calories, you wouldn’t obtain too much fat from it.
Boosts Immunity
Drinking lemon barley drink regularly can keep your immune system intact and protect you from sickness. Adding lemon increases vitamin C content in the drink, which is important to enhance immune cell functions in the body.
Promotes Digestion
Barley water contains digestive fibre that is essential to aid digestion and encourage smooth bowel movements. Drinking barley water when you have constipation can ease your discomfort and allow you to have bowel movements that are not difficult to pass.
Gives Glowing Skin
Another benefit of drinking barley water is improved skin health. The antioxidants present in the drink fight signs of ageing and make way for clear, glowing skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties support the skin in fighting acne. And its detoxifying abilities help remove toxins from the body to support the revival of dull-looking skin.
Eases Pregnancy Symptoms
Barley water may also help women fight pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness. It can also facilitate digestion and relieve constipation due to its fibre-rich content. However, as pregnancy calls for extra precaution, always consult your doctor before taking barley water for its pregnancy-related benefits.
May Help with Kidney Stones and UTIs
Studies also indicate the benefits of barley water for kidney stones and urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, more research is needed in this area. It is believed that barley water has a diuretic effect on the body, increasing urine output and helping in dissolving stones or flushing out harmful bacteria responsible for infecting the urinary tract.
Does Barley Water Cause Any Side Effects?
Drinking excess amounts of barley water is not good for health. It can cause unwanted symptoms like loose stools or constipation as it contains a lot of fibre.
Moreover, it is important to note that barley contains gluten. So, the drink may not be suitable for people with a gluten allergy. They can experience symptoms like:
- Diarrhoea or indigestion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rashes
- Cramping in the stomach
- Indigestion
Final Thoughts
Barley water is an easy-to-prepare drink that offers several benefits. Many people count on it to improve their health and well-being. While making a glass of this drink does not take much effort, one must know how much barley water to drink in a day. 1-2 glasses in a day are just enough. Drinking too much of it may not suit your body and cause side effects you wouldn’t want to experience.
FAQs
What is the local name of barley in India?
Barley is called ‘Jau’ (Hindi) in India.
Can you drink soaked barley water?
Yes, you can drink barley water prepared by soaking or boiling barley in water.
What is the best time to drink barley water?
The best time to drink is first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach. If that’s not possible, you can also drink barley water before or after your meals.
How much barley water to drink in a day for weight loss?
Drinking 1-2 medium glasses of barley water may be enough to support you in your weight loss journey. However, it is best to consult a dietician for the exact amount, as requirements vary based on individual needs.
How much barley water to drink in a day for constipation?
Your doctor will be able to suggest to you how much barley water you should drink for constipation depending on the severity of the condition. Remember to stick to a safe limit of 1-2 glasses per day if you have not consulted your doctor.
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