10 Surprising Health Benefits of Barley Everyone Needs to Know About

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Lund University scientists in Sweden found in a study that the cereal grain barley could potentially aid in weight loss, and in keeping the risks of heart disease and diabetes at bay.

The scientists say that the key to the health benefits of barley is due to the special mix of dietary fibers found in the grains.

According to a report from the Daily Mail, these healthy grains could help in reducing weight because it help control appetite and regulate metabolism of a person. And, because barley also reduce blood sugar levels and promote the release of vital hormones that, in turn, reduces low-grade inflammation, the cereal grain also helps lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

"It is surprising yet promising that choosing the right blend of dietary fibers can, in a short period of time, generate such remarkable health benefits," said Anne Nilsson, associate professor and one of the co-authors of the study.

The researchers evaluated a group of healthy middle-aged volunteers for three days wherein the participants were asked to eat bread for their three meals during the day. The special bread is made from 85 percent barley kernels.

The findings showed that an improvement in the metabolism, appetite control and insulin sensitivity of the participants. The researchers also observed a decrease in blood sugar and insulin levels.

"After eating the bread made out of barley kernel, we saw an increase in gut hormones that regulate metabolism and appetite, and an increase in a hormone that helps reduce chronic low-grade inflammation, among the participants," added Dr. Nilsson. "In time this could help prevent the occurrence of both cardiovascular disease and diabetes."

According to an earlier research from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, barley stimulates the growth of the gut bacteria Prevotella copri, which are responsible for the regulatory effect on blood sugar levels and reduction of unhealthy gut bacteria.

• Apart from weight loss, and reduction of heart disease and diabetes risks, here are the other health benefits from barley.

• According to Medical News Today, the nutrient in barley called Choline can help an individual with sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory.

•  Since barley is a good source of fiber, it can also help in promoting a healthy digestive tract and avoid constipation.

• The selenium found aids in liver enzyme function and detoxification of some cancer-causing compounds, while the Beta glucan fiber boosts the immune system to fight cancer cells and prevent tumors.

• The beta glucan fiber also helps in lowering LDL cholesterol

• It is also rich in phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, manganese and zinc that are all necessary for stronger bones.

• The iron, potassium, calcium and magnesium content of barley also helps in lowering blood pressure naturally.

• Barley also has copper that could aid in reducing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, says Lifehack.org.

• Some studies found that fiber intake from whole grains among pre-menopausal women could reduce the risk of breast cancer.

• It helps improve immunity.

• It helps treat anemia due to its iron content that increases the blood volume.