10 Barley Water Benefits Unlocked for Better Health
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Mayanka Lodha Seth
Written By Ruthika Bose
on Mar 26, 2025
Last Edit Made By Ruthika Bose
on Apr 1, 2025
Like rice or wheat, Barley is a cereal grain consumed as a staple food in many cultures. Barley water is prepared by boiling this cereal grain and then straining and flavoring it.
Barley water benefits people by boosting immunity and preparing the body to fight diseases. With a mild nutty flavor, this traditional beverage is made from barley cooked in water and flavored with lemon juice or sweeteners.
Consuming this drink is believed to help in weight loss, support the growth of healthy cells, detoxify the body by flushing out toxins, regulate the digestive process, lower oxidative stress on the organs, and keep the body hydrated.
How to make Barley Water?
You can follow these steps to prepare barley water:
- Rinse barley properly in cold water
- Please put it in a saucepan with some lemon peels.
- Add 6 cups of water to it and let the mixture boil over a medium flame
- Turn off the flame and let the drink simmer for 15-30 minutes
- Strain it and mix natural sweeteners like honey or powdered jaggery
- Pour into a clean bottle once cool and refrigerate
- Enjoy it chilled
Consume it in moderation, as excess of anything can lead to health complications.
Want to know more about barley water benefits? Read on to explore how this drink can keep you fit as a fiddle.
10 Surprising Barley Water Benefits
Barley water benefits make it a powerful and natural solution provider for many health conditions.
1. High In Dietary Fiber
Barley is a soluble fiber that dissolves in water and provides the body with energy. It improves bowel movements and reduces the risk of chronic health conditions.
2. Effective for Urinary Tract Infection
Barley is a diuretic that increases urine production, helping flush out bacteria that cause infection. Barley water benefits people with UTI problems by reducing burning sensation, swelling, and irritation and promoting urinary health.
3. Monitors Cholesterol Levels
Barley has chemical compounds known as tocols, which can lower LDL cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Additionally, the antioxidants in barley water benefit people by protecting them from cardiovascular diseases and promoting heart health by maintaining good cholesterol levels.
4. Manages Blood Pressure
Barley is rich in potassium, which balances sodium levels in the body and benefits people with hypertension. Barley water reduces cholesterol levels, improves blood circulation, and monitors blood pressure levels.
5. Controls Blood Sugar Spikes
The antioxidants present in barley water monitor blood sugar levels and act upon bacteria in the gut, such as prevotella, which lowers blood sugar levels for around 11-14 hours. Also, having unsweetened barley water can lower blood sugar level spikes.
6. Aids Weight Loss
The fiber content, especially in unstrained barley water, can keep you full for long hours, effectively managing your hunger.
It is high in calories but low in fat, keeps the body hydrated, and smoothes the digestive process. Barley signals the body to release hormones that regulate appetite and boost metabolism, further contributing to weight loss.
7. Promotes Digestive Process
Barley is high in soluble digestive fiber, which helps the body move food through the stomach and out of the bowels. The fiber also acts as a probiotic and regulates bowel movements, preventing digestive problems such as gas and bloating.
Also, consuming barley promotes a healthier gut by reducing gut bacteria known as Bacteroides and increasing good bacteria that promote a healthy gut.
8. Boosts Immunity
Barley contains vitamins and minerals that fight free radicals and improve the immune system. Flavoring the drink with lemon juice can supercharge it with vitamin C, further increasing its health benefits.
9. Reduces Risk of Cancer
A study showcased that colon cancer cells stopped reproducing due to the antioxidants in barley. Ferulic acid in barley also prevents tumor growth, preventing health criticalities. Diet and lifestyle factors play a vital role in lowering cancer risk. Barley water benefits those at risk of cancer by protecting the colon and flushing out toxins.
10. Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants found in barley water have numerous health benefits, including aiding the growth of healthy cells and getting the body rid of free radicals, which lead to oxidative stress on the organs.
These benefits make this ancient drink a natural elixir for a healthier body and mind.
Get a Natural Radiant Look With Barley Water
Barley water benefits the skin by providing nourishment naturally. Barley is a boon for your skin as it:
- Detoxifies the body by flushing out impurities
- Improves skin elasticity
- It makes you look younger
- Adds glow to the skin
- Reduces acne, blemishes, dullness and redness
Shine with clear and glowing skin by adding this super nutritious drink.
10 Best Nutritional Benefits of Barley Water
Barley water is packed with essential nutrients like:
- Iron
- Copper
- Calcium
- Zinc
- Phosphorous
- Magnesium
- Manganese
- Selenium
- Vitamin B- complex
- Vitamin C
The high nutritional content in barley water benefits individuals by providing energy and supporting bone health and muscle function, making it a valuable addition to the diet.
A half cup of boiled barley consists of :
| Contents | Value |
| Calories | 118 kcal |
| Proteins | 1.87 g |
| Fat | 2.3 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 23 g |
It has zero sugar and is great for people trying to manage their blood sugar levels and lose weight.
Does It Improve Kidney & Liver Functioning?
Certain studies show that the nutrients present in barley water benefit the kidneys and liver by:
- Maintaining the body’s pH levels and preventing kidney stones
- Promoting frequent urination and flushing out toxins
Barley Water Benefits During Pregnancy
Being a rich source of nutrients like iron, folic acid, and calcium, barley water benefits women in the baby’s development. Folic acid prevents defects in the neural tube, while iron increases blood volume during pregnancy.
It is also good for health issues like urinary tract infections and constipation, which are common problems during pregnancy. Barley water benefits both the baby and the mother by keeping them hydrated and nourished.
Stay Alert & Avoid These Simple Mistakes
Barley water benefits cannot be undermined, but consuming more than six glasses can lead to frequent urination and cause stomach cramps, bloating, and constipation.
Barley water already has a high-calorie content, which increases further if sweeteners are added, leading to unwanted weight gain.
Moreover, It can interfere with medication, and if you are allergic to gluten, it can trigger an autoimmune response. You might experience symptoms such as:
- Rashes
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach Cramps
- Indigestion
Pay attention to these signs and take action without delay. Check for food allergies, get tested, and consult a doctor before making dietary modifications. Redcliffe Labs supports your health journey by providing accurate and affordable diagnostic services.
FAQ
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How many times a week should one consume barley water?
Drink barley water 2-3 times a week, as excess consumption can lead to digestive issues.
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Can barley water help treat kidney stones?
Barley water flushes out toxins from the body and helps maintain pH and creatinine levels, thus helping to treat kidney stones.
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Can barley water be taken on an empty stomach?
Yes, barley water can be consumed on an empty stomach in the morning. It is nutrient-rich and has numerous health benefits.
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Is barley water helpful in lowering cholesterol?
Barley water has soluble fiber that binds to bile acids, removing them from the body and reducing cholesterol levels.
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What are the side effects of barley water?
It can lead to health complications for people who are allergic to gluten and interfere with the digestive process if consumed in excess.
