Barley is widely recognized for its many health benefits. Barley water side effects may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but they are worth considering. Barley water, made by mixing barley flour with water, is often considered one of the healthiest beverages. It helps cool the body during hot summer months and delivers several essential nutrients. But did you know that barley water can also have side effects? In this article, we explore the potential downsides of consuming barley water and what you can do to stay safe.
Common Side Effects of Barley Water
1) Gas and Bloating
Barley is rich in dietary fiber, which can sometimes cause gas or bloating. This happens due to the fermentation of fiber by beneficial gut bacteria in the colon. If you frequently experience this, it might be a good idea to limit your barley water intake.
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2) Stomach Discomfort
Drinking too much barley water can upset your stomach. It may also interact with certain medications used to treat gastrointestinal issues. This can lead to symptoms such as cramps, stomach spasms, pain, bloating, or even diarrhea and worsened IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
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3) Constipation
Surprisingly, consuming too much barley water can contribute to chronic constipation. If you experience difficulty passing stools for more than a week, consult a healthcare professional.
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4) Rectal Bleeding
Severe constipation caused by excessive barley water intake may result in rectal bleeding and intense pain. To avoid this, monitor your consumption and maintain a balanced intake.
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5) Fungal Contamination
There have been reports of fungal contamination in barley water. Contaminants such as Trichothecium Roseum and Ochratoxin A, found in malt extract, may pose serious health risks, including bone damage.
6) Allergic Reactions
Barley water allergies are not uncommon. If you have a history of hypersensitivity or allergies, it’s best to moderate your intake. Symptoms may include swelling of the eyes, eyelids, nose, arms, or legs, along with redness, hives, inflammation, irritation, or in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
7) Baker's Asthma
Barley grains can trigger a severe respiratory allergy known as "baker’s asthma". This is more common among bakery workers, but inhaling too much barley flour while preparing your drink could also lead to similar issues.
8) Esophageal Damage
Due to its high fiber content, improperly prepared barley water may harm your esophagus. Make sure to add enough water when using malt extract; otherwise, you might face difficulty swallowing, which could lead to blockage or even tears in the esophagus.
9) Celiac Disease Risk
Barley contains a significant amount of gluten. For individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, drinking barley water can severely aggravate their condition.
10) Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Excessive barley water intake may lower your blood sugar levels. If your glucose level drops too much, it can result in hypoglycemia. Monitoring your blood sugar is crucial, especially if you consume barley water regularly.
11) Surgical Complications
Because barley water can rapidly reduce blood sugar, it is advised to stop drinking it at least 10 to 14 days before any scheduled surgery. Doing so helps maintain stable glucose levels and minimizes the risk of surgical complications.
While the potential side effects of barley water should be taken seriously, they don’t mean you have to eliminate it from your diet entirely. Like many things in life, the key is moderation. If you drink barley water in reasonable amounts and pay attention to your body's reactions, it can still be a refreshing and nutritious part of your lifestyle.
