Archaeologists have discovered that wild barley originates from what is called the Fertile Crescent, the region covering modern southern Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, and northern Egypt. Columbus brought barley to the New World; the Conquistadors spread wheat throughout South and Central America; missionaries introduced barley to California.
Barley is a cereal with a rich flavor and a pasta-like chewy texture, and it is nutrient-rich. When sprouted, it has a high maltose sugar content used as a sweetener, and when fermented, it is used to produce beer and various alcoholic beverages. Barley is an important food containing proteins, minerals, and vitamins such as niacin, molybdenum, manganese, dietary fiber, selenium, copper, chromium, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin B1.
Properties and benefits of barley
Barley is an excellent source of fiber that feeds friendly bacteria in the digestive system. Thanks to its unique fiber properties and how it reacts in the body, barley promotes healthy digestion and thus supports a healthy colon. This results in reduced risk of colon cancer and fewer episodes of hemorrhoids. This insoluble fiber also reduces the risk of developing gallstones and lowering cholesterol.
Barley is high in phosphorus and copper which supports skeletal system health. It can heal many bone problems and aids dental health. It is also a natural remedy for osteoporosis due to its high calcium content.
Barley is also rich in vitamin C, which promotes a strong immune system, thereby helping the body resist colds and flu. The iron and copper content in the grain improves red blood cell volume, preventing anemia and aiding proper kidney function.
Barley also helps maintain healthy skin because it is a good source of selenium, helping the skin retain its elasticity and preventing free radical damage. It also improves heart and pancreas function and prevents tumors of the skin, prostate, liver, stomach, and breast.
Research has shown that barley is effective in controlling type 2 diabetes because it slows glucose absorption during digestion, thereby regulating insulin levels in the body. Additionally, it fills you up and helps control food cravings. This leads to weight control and reduction of fat cells. Lowering body weight reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
