Lowers Cholesterol Levels:
Barley is rich in both soluble and insoluble fibers. The soluble fiber dissolves and binds with the fatty acids, thus lowering the total cholesterol levels as well as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as the bad cholesterol. The insoluble fiber, on the other hand, yields propionic acid that helps in keeping the blood cholesterol levels low. Low cholesterol levels significantly reduce the risk of stroke and heart attacks.
Aids Weight Loss:
Consuming barley makes you feel fuller for a longer period and hence, suppresses the appetite. Moreover, the fiber in barley facilitates the removal of fat from the body. Thus, barley can aid in weight loss.
Protection Against Cancer:
Barley contains phytonutrients called plant lignans. One such lignan, called enterolactone, helps prevent breast cancer as well as coronary diseases. The dietary fiber provides good bacteria in the large intestines that help in the proper functioning of it, thus protecting against colon cancer.
Checks Diabetes:
Eating barley is particularly beneficial for diabetic patients as it stabilizes the blood glucose levels. This is because the beta-glucan fiber found in this whole grain has the ability to slow down the body’s absorption of carbohydrates from foods, leading to a reduction in the glucose and insulin levels.
Beneficial For Anemia:
Barley contains the mineral copper which helps in the formation of hemoglobin, needed for the production of red blood cells. Thus, it helps in abating anemia.
