Superfoods - Barley Grass

Question 1

Barley grass:
Description

Answer 1

AKA Hordeum Vulgare L
Barley grass provides similar nutrients and benefits as wheatgrass and shares the same energetic qualities

Question 2

Barley grass:
Composition

Answer 2

• Barley grass is particularly rich in vitamins A, B1, C and E
• Calcium, potassium, selenium
• Enzymes including superoxide dismutase (a powerful antioxidant)
• Antioxidants – phytochemicals including flavonoids and other polyphenols
• Chlorophyll
• Amino acids including GABA.
• Barley grass also has a particularly high-fibre content

Question 3

Barley grass:
Benefits and clinical applications

Answer 3

• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Cardiovascular support
• Diabetes
• Gout
• And supports healthy gastrointestinal functions
• Promote sleep and relaxation
• Supports energy production

Question 4

Barley grass : Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory

Answer 4

Provides protection against chronic diseases including cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Barley grass can down regulate the pro inflammatory TNF-a

Question 5

Barley grass:
Cardiovascular support

Answer 5

• Decreases LDL and total cholesterol, while increasing HDL cholesterol
• Helps regulate blood pressure– associated with the phytochemical ‘saponarin’ (e.g. magnesium and potassium)

Question 6

Barley grass:
Diabetes

Answer 6

The high-fibre content producers fasting blood sugar and glycated haemoglobin

Question 7

Barley grass:
Gout

Answer 7

Reduces serum uric acid by increasing urinary excretion

Question 8

Barley grass:
Support healthy gastrointestinal function

Answer 8

Fibres supports bowel elimination, and nourishes the microflora
Flavonoids reduce inflammation and allow healing of mucous membranes – especially in conditions such as ulcerative colitis

Question 9

Barley grass:
Promote sleep and relaxation

Answer 9

Related to primary to content of GABA (also beneficial to anxiety) and tryptophan (precursor to serotonin and melatonin)

Question 10

Barley grass:
Supports energy production

Answer 10

• Contains enzymes involved in mitochondrial function including cytochrome oxidase.
• Flavonoids such as lutonarin and saponarin improve oxygenation of body tissues and reduce fatigue

Question 11

Barley grass:
Practical advice

Answer 11

• As with wheatgrass there are no definitive dosage guidelines
• General recommendations ranged from 3-15 g dried powder daily
• Start at smaller dose of 1 ml fresh juice a day, and then increase daily up to 5 ml a day. Divided doses may be better tolerated
• While some sources suggest taking on an empty stomach to increase assimilation, both barley and wheat grass can be added to fresh juices and smoothies
  Caution: in those with known grass allergies