What Is Barley Water?

Barley water is a refreshing drink made from barley grains that have been boiled in water. It has been a popular beverage in many cultures for centuries, known for its numerous health benefits and delicious taste. In this article, we will explore the history, nutritional value, preparation and benefits of barley water, as well as provide details on finding the best barley water brand for you.

Barley water has a long history, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. It was often consumed by athletes to help them stay hydrated during competitions. The drink was also used as a natural remedy for various ailments, such as digestive issues, fever, and inflammation. Barley water has also been a popular drink in Asia, especially in Japan, where it is believed to promote clear skin and aid in weight loss.

Nutritionally, barley water is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is rich in antioxidants, such as beta-glucan, which helps to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. It also contains essential nutrients such as calcium, potassium and magnesium, which are important for maintaining strong bones and healthy blood pressure levels.

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The benefits of drinking barley water are numerous. It helps to improve digestion, as it is rich in fiber, which promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. The beverage also helps to reduce inflammation in the body, which can lead to improved heart health and lower cholesterol levels. It is also a great source of hydration, especially during hot summer months, and can help to prevent dehydration when your daily intake of water is lagging a bit.

To prepare barley water, you will need barley grains, water, and any additional ingredients you prefer, such as lemon juice or honey. To begin, rinse the barley grains in cold water and then soak them in water for a few hours or overnight. Once the grains are soaked, drain the water and place the grains in a pot with fresh water. Bring the water to a boil and then simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the barley grains are soft and have released their nutrients, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve, and discard the grains. You can then add any additional ingredients to taste, such as lemon juice, honey or fresh herbs.

Of course, many of you may not want to prepare your own barley water as it is a bit more time-intensive than, say, purchasing pre-made bottles of this tasty and healthy beverage from reputable vendors. When trying to decide what brands to buy, remember these five tips:

1. Read the label: Look for a product with natural ingredients and no added preservatives or artificial flavors.
2. Check the sugar content: Some brands may add sugar or sweeteners to their barley water, which can increase the calorie count. Look for options with minimal or no added sugar.
3. Consider the packaging: Choose a product that comes in a BPA-free container to avoid harmful chemicals leaching into the drink.
4. Look for organic options: Organic barley water may be a healthier choice as it is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
5. Read customer reviews: Check online customer reviews to get an idea of the taste and quality of different brands.

If you follow that advice, you’ll be sure to purchase a top-tier barley water for your hydration and health needs. Here are two of our favorites:

Graasi Organic Barley Water

Graasi Organic Barley Water is made from organic barley grass juice powder and is gluten-free, vegan and non-GMO. At only 35 calories, Graasi aims to become a new and healthy part of your daily diet if you’re searching for a high-quality barley water. Loaded with a plethora of vitamins and nutrients including vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc and selenium, Graasi provides a variety of health benefits such as boosting immunity, aiding digestion and natural detoxification.

“When developing a new line of functional waters, we focused on unique ingredients that would promote overall wellness and self-care,” says Chris LaCorata, founder of Graasi. “Barley water has been consumed by cultures around the world for thousands of years as a general wellness drink. We’re bringing it back and making it better with organic ingredients and immunity-boosting vitamins and minerals.”

Graasi’s barley waters are available in three unique, delicious flavors: Citrus Mint, Cucumber Lime and Lemongrass Ginger. They are available for purchase in six-packs and 12-packs of 16-ounce bottles as well as a three-pack sampler that features one of each flavor. Yummy!

Robinsons Barley Water

England-based Robinsons, a BritVic company, first debuted its barley water 88 years ago, and the brand still produces this healthy and delicious beverage to this day – alongside myriad fruit and “squash” beverages (a British staple). Made with naturally sourced barley and zingy citrus fruits with no artificial colors or flavors, Robinsons Barley Water is a “classic recipe that has been loved in England for years.”

Barley water is a nutritious and refreshing drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is easy to prepare and offers numerous health benefits, making it a great addition to your diet. Whether you drink it hot or cold, with lemon juice or honey, barley water is a delicious and healthy way to stay hydrated and improve your overall health.