Benefits Of Barley Tea And How To Prepare It
The benefits of barley tea are news to some and familiar to others. It is a common component of the diet of many people. The truth is that the consumption of this grain, in any of its forms, is favorable for health.
The reason why this happens is that in this cereal there is an accumulation of nutrients that act to protect the organism and prevent the appearance of certain diseases. Discover in this article what are its benefits and how you can prepare the infusion.
What is barley tea?
Barley tea is a drink that has been consumed since ancient times in Asian countries, such as Korea and Japan. It can be served hot or cold.
To prepare it, roasted barley was used and then boiled in hot water, but today it is also made from ground grains and that is how it is marketed. It has a slight bitter taste so it can be combined with other ingredients such as cinnamon, corn and honey.
Barley tea benefits
One of the peculiarities of this infusion is that it contains nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, zinc, phosphorus, vitamin K, B complex substances and fiber, among others. From there derive, then, the benefits of its consumption.
According to various studies, the intake of barley and its infusions has an action in regulating serum cholesterol and sugar levels. Similarly, it is an immune system stimulant.
Regulates blood cholesterol
This infusion provides a considerable amount of dietary fiber. One of the effects of this nutrient is to form insoluble complexes with cholesterol, thus reducing its intestinal absorption.
Thanks to this, it maintains normal levels of this lipid, increasing protection against the risk of cardiovascular diseases. They are associated with the appearance of atheroma plaques in the arteries that impede circulation.
Balances blood sugar and causes satiety
According to a study published in the journal Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity , the regular intake of this infusion has an antidiabetic effect. Another of the actions of dietary fiber is to maintain normal insulin levels and, therefore, also regulate glucose and prolong satiety.
Maintains intestinal health
In the germ of this grain there is a substance called hordein that acts as an intestinal antiseptic. Consequently, its intake can positively influence the treatment of colitis and diarrhea, as well as various infections linked to peristalsis.
In addition, fiber keeps the intestinal microbiota in balance and helps increase the volume of stool. In relation to this, science shows that this infusion reduces the chances of developing hemorrhoids.
Protects the immune system
Thanks to its contribution of vitamin C and antioxidant substances, it helps to strengthen the immune system. Various mechanisms stimulate, through nutrition, a sustained and continuous action of white blood cells. In addition, it also contains iron, making it useful to prevent anemia and fatigue.