Why you must include a glass (or more) of barley water to your summer routine

This year, to beat the scorching heat do not turn to cold drinks — we are here to tell you about a cool and soothing beverage that is not only hydrating but also boasts of many health benefits. Wondering what it is? Here’s presenting to you: barley water which, according to nutritionist Leema Mahajan, has been used for centuries to fight urinary tract infections (UTI), premature greying of hair, flushing out kidney stones, and increasing milk supply in lactating mothers.

According to Mahajan, the traditional drink which entails boiling and cooling down barley or jau water also works great on the skin and helps heal acne and tighten the pores.

Summer Drink Barley Water

Ingredients

Hulled barley
Water
Salt
Lemon

Method

*Wash the barley a few times and drain out the water. Make sure the water runs clear. Soak barley in 4.5 cups of filtered water for about 6-8 hours.
*Place a dish on medium-high flame. Once it starts to boil, boil the barley for 10 minutes.
*Once the barley has released its nutrients, the water will look creamy white. Make sure the barley grains are super soft before turning off the stove. Allow the barley water to cool down.
*Mahajan shared that you can drink the barley water directly, or add lime juice and salt to taste.

Is it effective?

Barley water is an excellent beverage to incorporate into your summer routine due to its numerous health benefits, said Dr Agarwal.

Here are some reasons why barley water is good for you during the summer season

Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial during the hot summer months, and barley water can help quench your thirst effectively. It is a refreshing drink that keeps you hydrated and replenishes essential electrolytes lost through sweat, said Dr Agarwal.

Cooling properties: Barley water has natural cooling properties, making it a perfect choice to beat the heat. Dr Agarwal shared that it can help reduce body heat, providing a soothing and refreshing sensation, especially on hot summer days.

Digestive health: Barley water is known for its excellent digestive properties. It contains soluble fibre that aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Dr Agarwal shared that it can help relieve issues like constipation, bloating, and indigestion, which are common during the summer due to dietary changes.

Nutritional value: Barley is a nutritious grain, and when boiled to make barley water, it releases various essential vitamins and minerals. Dr Agarwal shared that it is a good source of fibre, B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and selenium. These nutrients are beneficial for supporting overall health and boosting energy levels.

What do you do to manage your weight? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Weight management: If you’re looking to maintain or manage your weight during the summer, barley water can be a helpful addition to your diet. Dr Agarwal elucidated that the high fibre content in barley water promotes a feeling of fullness, curbing unnecessary cravings and snacking. It can also assist in regulating blood sugar levels.

Detoxification: Barley water acts as a natural detoxifier for the body. It helps in flushing out toxins and waste products, promoting healthy kidney function, and reducing the risk of urinary tract infections. Dr Agarwal shared that detoxification is especially important during summer when dehydration and toxin buildup are common.

Skin health: Barley water contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and protect the skin against damage from free radicals. Dr Agarwal said that regular consumption of barley water can contribute to a healthy and glowing complexion, reducing the occurrence of skin issues like acne and blemishes.

Who is it not for?

“However, people with gluten sensitivity, autoimmune disorders, and celiac diseases should avoid barley,” said Mahajan.

Gluten is a protein found in certain grains, including barley, wheat, and rye. For individuals with gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can trigger a range of symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue, said Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospitals, Parel, Mumbai.

In individuals with celiac disease, consuming gluten can cause damage to the lining of the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and other complications, added Dr Agarwal. For people with celiac disease, following a strict gluten-free diet is crucial to manage their condition and prevent further damage to their health.

In the case of autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or rheumatoid arthritis, consumption of gluten can potentially worsen symptoms and trigger an inflammatory response in the body. “Barley can be found in various processed foods, such as soups, sauces, and certain types of alcohol. Additionally, cross-contamination can occur in food preparation or manufacturing facilities, so it is essential to ensure that gluten-free products are produced in dedicated gluten-free facilities,” said Dr Agarwal.

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