Barley Water During Pregnancy – Health Benefits and Risks

Pregnancy is a daunting phase for the expecting mother, especially because there’s always a fear about what is best for her to consume – one such thing on the list is barley water. Many cultures have long praised the benefits of barley water during pregnancy. It is believed to be a hydrating and nutritious drink that is also rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, which is essential for both the mother and the developing baby.

Is It Safe to Eat Barley During Pregnancy?

Barley kanji or barley water is a healthy drink made using pearl barley. Barley is good for pregnancy. Barley has a nutty flavour, and barley water for pregnant ladies is beneficial as it helps maintain their health during pregnancy.

According to a study, drinking barley water regularly helps prevent many potential health issues and provides nourishment to the body (1). Additionally, you can add it to your salads, stews, and steamed vegetables.

However, there are many conflicting views around the intake of barley kanji during pregnancy, due to certain conditional risks which we will address later.

Nutritional Value of Barley

Barley for pregnant ladies presents a wealth of vital minerals and vitamins essential for fetal growth and development. Its abundant fiber content aids in averting constipation and maintaining regular bowel movements throughout pregnancy. Moreover, its rich antioxidant profile shields the body from oxidative stress. The diuretic properties of barley water notably decrease the likelihood of urinary tract infections (UTIs) during pregnancy. Additionally, its energy-boosting qualities offer expecting mothers a means to combat fatigue effectively.

Beyond its nutritional advantages, barley water demonstrates positive impacts on prenatal well-being through various avenues. Research indicates that its consumption contributes to stabilizing blood sugar levels, particularly crucial for individuals with gestational diabetes. Furthermore, it aids in reducing cholesterol levels, mitigating the risk of heart disease and related complications during pregnancy. Notably, its anti-inflammatory attributes alleviate common pregnancy discomforts such as swelling and joint pain. Overall, integrating barley water into prenatal dietary habits yields numerous benefits for both maternal health and fetal development.

Health Benefits of Drinking Barley Water

There are a lot of benefits to drinking barley water. Barley water can be prepared easily at home, contains 100% natural ingredients, and is safe for anyone. It is a natural medicine for several diseases and helps in the prevention of many others as well .

1. Barley is a source of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron, which are essential for the development of the foetus.
2. It is rich in dietary fibre, which helps in preventing some common medical conditions in pregnant women (constipation and haemorrhoids) (2).
3. Barley has niacin, which helps with digestion. Niacin also helps in blood clotting which is helpful during caesarean or vaginal delivery.
4. The low glycaemic index of barley maintains blood sugar levels and prevents gestational diabetes.
5. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, barley grains are rich in folic acid, which prevents neural tube defects like cleft lip and Spinal Bifida (3).
6. The copper present in barley helps in maintaining the flexibility of blood vessels, bones, and joints during pregnancy.
7. Barley is a diuretic agent, which makes it safe for consumption and provides relief from yeast infections and urinary tract infections.
8. It reduces stomach inflammation and flushes toxins out of the body, thus safeguarding it from various infections.
9. Having barley water helps with nausea and offers relief from stomach cramps and irritation.
10. While your belly grows, barley aids in tissue repair and growth of cells, which is helpful for the belly.
11. Barley has lactogenic properties which help in the secretion of more breast milk.
12. It lowers cholesterol levels, thus reducing the chances of cardiovascular diseases.
13. Barley can help relieve swelling in the legs, which is one of the most common problems pregnant women face.

Common Risks of Barley Consumption

Barley water, when consumed by pregnant women, rarely causes any side effects. However, some women may experience the following:

1. According to the University of Manchester, some women may be allergic to barley, and its consumption could trigger itchiness, shortness of breath, and rashes (4).
2. Barley dust could cause sinus irritation, pain in the eyes, or nasal congestions in some women.
3. If the barley consumed is infected with fungi, you might suffer from Kashin Beck disease, a medical condition related to the bones.
4. Those who are intolerant to gluten should not consume barley.

Precautions to Take When Consuming Barley Water During Pregnancy

When consuming barley water during pregnancy, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure both the mother’s and baby’s health:

• Before adding barley water to your pregnancy diet, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs and any specific concerns.
• While barley water can offer nutritional benefits, it’s essential to consume it in moderation. Excessive intake of any food or beverage during pregnancy can lead to unwanted effects.
• When preparing barley water, ensure proper hygiene practices. Wash barley grains thoroughly before cooking and use clean utensils and equipment to avoid contamination.
• Refrain from adding unnecessary additives, such as sugar or artificial flavorings, to barley water. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey if needed, but be cautious and use them sparingly.
• Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to barley. If you have a history of food allergies or intolerances, monitor your body’s response closely when introducing barley water into your diet.
• While barley water can contribute to hydration, it’s essential to maintain a balanced intake of fluids during pregnancy. Drink plenty of water and incorporate other hydrating beverages as well.
• Barley water’s high fiber content may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or gas, in some individuals. Monitor your body’s response and adjust your intake accordingly.
• Opt for whole barley grains or minimally processed barley products to maximize nutritional benefits. Avoid highly processed barley products that may contain added sugars or unhealthy additives.

How to Prepare Barley Water?

Barley kanji or barley water made at home is way healthier than the packaged version which is laden with sugar and preservatives.

How to Make Barley Water?

1. Rinse the barley under running water and soak it in water for at least 3 to 4 hours.
2. Strain and mix 1 cup of the barley with 3-4 cups of water.
3. Leave the mixture to boil. Once it starts boiling, cover it with a lid. Leave it to simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the grains are properly cooked and soft.
4. Give enough time for the mixture to cool.
5. Once it’s cool, strain the barley mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or pour it into a cup and let the grains settle at the bottom.
6. Consume 1 or 2 cups of this water daily. You may enhance the taste by adding some lemon juice or honey.
7. The excess barley water can be stored in the refrigerator for a maximum of 3 days.

The barley grains can also be used for thickening soups or stews and can be added to smoothies.

FAQs

1. Is barley water safe to drink during pregnancy?

Barley water during pregnancy first and third trimester, and even second trimester is generally considered safe to consume. It offers essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can support maternal and fetal health. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before adding barley water to your pregnancy diet to ensure it aligns with your individual health needs.

2. Can barley water help with pregnancy-related discomforts?

Yes, barley water may help alleviate certain pregnancy discomforts. Its fiber content can aid in preventing constipation and regulating bowel movements. Additionally, its diuretic properties may reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are common during pregnancy. However, moderation is key, and pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare provider before incorporating barley water into their routine.

3. Are there any precautions to consider when drinking barley water during pregnancy?

While barley water can offer nutritional benefits, it’s essential to consume it in moderation and ensure proper hygiene when preparing it. Pregnant individuals should avoid additives like sugar and artificial flavorings and opt for natural sweeteners if needed. Monitoring for any allergic reactions and balancing barley water in pregnancy with other fluids is also recommended. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on incorporating barley water into your pregnancy diet.

This was all about barley and pregnancy. Both barley water and barley grains are beneficial for pregnant women. The abundance of nutrients in barley ensures a healthy pregnancy. However, one should be cautious when purchasing it, and ensure that the barley picked is fresh. Barley in pregnancy should not be consumed in excess and one should always adhere to the instructions of a doctor in case of any discomfort.

References/Resources:

1. Li. J, Kaneko. T, Qin. Li, Wang. J, Wang. Y; Effects of barley intake on glucose tolerance, lipid metabolism, and bowel function in women (Nutrition); National Library of Medicine; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14624940/

2. Burton-Freeman. B; Dietary Fiber and Energy Regulation; The Journal of Nutrition; https://jn.nutrition.org/article/S0022-3166(22)11028-X/fulltext; February 2000

3. Folic Acid; University of Rochester Medical Center; https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=19&contentid=VitaminB-9

4. Allergy information for Barley (Hordeum vulgare ); University of Manchester, http://research.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/informall/allergenic-food/index.aspx?FoodId=63

5. Barley, pearl, cooked; Food Data Central; https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170285/nutrients

6. Fiber; Oregon State University; https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/other-nutrients/fiber

7. Barley-Water a Powerful Diuretic (The American Journal of Dental Science); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6076647/; December 1845

Also Read:

Alcohol during Pregnancy
Coconut Water when Pregnant
Drinking Sparkling Water in Pregnancy
Is it Safe to Drink Warm Water while Pregnant

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