by Barley water has been all the rage, and not without reason! It is loved by many for its digestive, refreshing and detoxifying properties. So sit back, relax and let us introduce you to the benefits of drinking barley water and how to prepare it.
Barley water or jau ka pani is a refreshing and healthy drink made by boiling barley grains or jau in water until the liquid becomes thick and creamy. It is rich in fiber, nutrients and antioxidants, making it an excellent tonic for the digestive system and a natural remedy for constipation. Barley water is also known for its cooling properties, which help regulate body temperature and prevent heat illness during the summer months. Barley water is a versatile drink that offers numerous health benefits and can be easily incorporated into any diet.
Benefits of drinking barley water in summer
1. Digestive health
“Barley water is an excellent digestive tonic for our gastrointestinal system. It regulates bowel habits and improves digestion due to its high fiber content”, says the well-known nutritionist Dr. Manoj Kutteri. Furthermore, he explains that barley water has been used as a remedy for constipation due to its high fiber content. The dietary fiber present in barley makes it a harmless drink for the intestine. Regular consumption of barley water helps improve peristalsis and regulate bowel movements, avoiding straining during bowel movements due to dehydration.
2. Refreshing properties
Nutrition expert claims that barley water helps to reduce core body temperature during summer and prevents heat illnesses. By providing the body with hydration, barley water helps maintain electrolyte balance and prevents dehydration.
3. Good for the kidneys
Barley water also improves kidney functions and can be used to prevent or treat urinary tract infections or kidney stones. “Its diuretic properties remove excess water from our system, providing excellent hydration to the body,” says Dr. Kutteri. It is an excellent detoxifying drink for the liver and purifying the blood. The antioxidant properties of barley water help fight free radicals in our body, thus preventing various diseases.
4. Weight loss
Barley water is an excellent weight loss agent. Barley helps prevent the absorption of LDL and triglycerides, which can result in weight loss. Barley can also be taken in the form of porridge or khichadi for weight control and can be a great alternative grain option.
Also Read: Move Over Oat Milk! Barley milk is 100% vegan and suitable for weight loss
5. Control blood pressure
Dr. Kutteri explains that since barley water helps remove excess water from our system, it can be used to maintain blood volume and therefore help with high blood pressure. It’s an excellent choice if your blood pressure is related to compromised kidney filtration or excessive salt intake.
6. Manage diabetes
The beta-glucan soluble fiber present in barley water binds to glucose molecules in our digestive tract and slows down the absorption of sugar. This helps control sugar spikes and treat diabetes. Its low glycemic index (GI) makes it a good diabetic-friendly and healthy grain substitute.
Also Read: Start Your Day With A Cup Of Barley Tea To Get These 14 Health Benefits
How to make barley water?
Dr. Kutteri suggests that to make barley water, rinse the barley grains well and soak them in water overnight. The next day, boil the barley in water for about 30 minutes or until the water turns thick and creamy. Strain the mixture and add lime or mint juice for flavor. You can also add honey or brown sugar for sweetness. The best time to consume barley water is early in the morning and on an empty stomach. This will help our body to stay cool and well hydrated.
