Roles of bioactive components in barley

Barley has received attention from health professionals for its fiber content particularly β-glucan which has been shown to reduce blood cholesterol and to produce a flattened glucose response. There is growing evidence supporting a role for dietary fiber in improving lipid metabolism and reducing glycemic index.

Therefore, consumption of barley whole grain or barley based foods has been associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some types of cancer.

The total dietary fiber in barley grain ranges form 11-34% out of which soluble dietary fiber share is 3-20%. Arabinoxylans, cellulose and β -glucans are the non-starch polysaccharides in barley and the major and important fraction being β -glucans. β-glucans are structural components in barley endosperm cell walls.

Barley grains also comprises of a wide range of phenolic compounds. The phenolic compounds function as free radical scavenger, reducing agent, quencher of singlet oxygen formation and potential producer of prooxidant metals.

Barley prevents osteoporosis. The phosphorus and copper content in barley grass guarantees overall good health of bones. The phosphorus content in barley effectively cures bone and tooth ailments.
Roles of bioactive components in barley