Fact Check About Barley: How Healthy Is This Trending Plant Really?
Barley grass contains many important nutrients and vitamins.
© Source: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Whether capsules or powders: Influencers aren’t the only ones constantly writing to their accounts about barley grass, which is claimed to be a superfood. Many online stores have jumped into the trend and health magazines are raving about the green miracle powder they claim.
Read more after advertisement
Read more after advertisement
But what is barley grass really? Barley grass is barley before it forms grain. Bright green grass that sprouts immediately after sowing is harvested in 3-6 weeks. According to the Federal Center for Nutrition (BZfE), this is the period when barley grass is the most nutrient-dense. The leaves are then freeze-dried, processed into a powder, and sold either directly or in capsule form.
Healthy eating is important
Barley grass contains numerous vitamins and minerals. In addition to vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, C, E and K, plants are also high in iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium.
Read more after advertisement
Read more after advertisement
However: the concentration of valuable ingredients is not higher than that of fruits and vegetables, the Federal Center for Nutrition explains. In any case, anyone who eats a healthy, balanced diet will never have to rely on barley.
DIY: Turmeric face mask for radiant and beautiful skin
With a little practice, you can make your own turmeric mask in less than 10 minutes. The effect lasts much longer on the skin.
© Source: Agnieszka Krus/RND
Satisfaction from barley?
There is still very little research on the benefits of barley grass, but green powder has been shown to have health-promoting properties.
- Barley grass is alkaline, so it needs an acid-base balance.
- Barley contains dietary fiber, which gives a feeling of satiety and suppresses cravings for sweets.
Read more after advertisement
Read more after advertisement
Barley grass is known to lower cholesterol levels
- Barley grass contains antioxidants. The skin is protected from free radicals, which also helps with hair loss.
- Barley grass is known to lower cholesterol levels, lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Barley grass is said to stimulate intestinal cell formation, contributing to normal digestion. The essential substances in barley grass are also said to help with high acidity or flatulence.
Barley grass may come into contact with pathogens
- Barley grass contains serotonin and tryptophan. The happiness hormone is said to improve mood and, if taken regularly, may even help with insomnia.
However, the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) warns that barley grass may come in contact with pathogens such as E. coli. This can be dangerous because the powder is consumed without heating it first. Therefore, in general, pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems should consult their doctor before consuming dry grass products.