When Jack London published his novel John Barleycorn in 1913 the novel focused on the personification of an important cereal crop and the liquor produced from it. The personification of John Barleycorn in London’s novel also occurred in numerous songs in the UK, in the 19th century that highlighted the inherent dangers of alcohol consumption.
But, now more than ever, the importance of barley as a crop transcends the production of whiskey and beer and aims to improve our health. The grain has long been a staple of cereals and a rice substitute and is frequently served in salads and stir-fries. But barley, when mixed with water is an ancient tonic, an elixir that our distant ancestors included in their daily diet since the beginning of recorded time. A study conducted by American Journal of Clinical Nutrition notes that the fiber contained in barley water helps lower cholesterol. Hence, this is a must-have drink for fitness fanatics and people concerned with improving their overall health.
A study conducted by American Journal of Clinical Nutrition notes that the fiber contained in barley water helps lower cholesterol. Hence, this is a must-have drink for fitness fanatics and people concerned with improving their overall health.
The insoluble fiber is also an excellent tonic to help prevent the formation of gallstones. Barley water also cuts the risk of Type-2 diabetes and helps control blood sugar fluctuations. The antioxidants contained in barley also prevent cancerous growths. Frequent consumption of barley water also helps promote weight loss as well making it an excellent choice as a weight-reducing drink. It also offers a sound amount of dietary fiber, boosts metabolism, and lowers cholesterol. In addition to promoting weight loss, there are many other barley water benefits.
Jammed with essential nutrients like manganese, selenium, B-group vitamins, and much more the barley whole grain is a virtual Colossus of health. Barley water is created by boiling barley grains in water. Diabetics should take special note, barley water has a low glycemic index due to its fiber content and will benefit diabetic patients immensely because dietary fibers are a complex carbohydrate that requires a longer time to digest. As a consequence, insulin secretion remains steady without any sudden spikes in blood sugar.
Although barley water may help to control blood sugar, it may interfere with diabetes medications, so it is of the utmost importance to discuss barley water with your doctor before making it a part of your healthy lifestyle.
Heat the water and pearl barley in a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and let it cook on a low flame for 30 minutes. You can muddle the grains a little, using a spoon. Strain it into a glass, tip in a lemon rind, and drizzle with a little honey on top. Let it cool completely. You can also keep it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Note: You can use ginger, cinnamon, cumin seeds and other spices, or orange juice to enhance the taste. The leftover grains can be used to make cereals, salads or a thickening agent for curries and smoothies. Don’t waste it!
