L‘barley grass is the still young barley plant, in which scientific name is “Hordeum vulgare”. Of this cereal, the seeds are generally used. They are the ones that are then cooked to make winter soups or summer salads. Barley can also be dehulled or blasted or processed into flour to make cookies and other baked goods. As the barley grass grows into a mature plant it is ground and roasted to make “coffee,” or malt that is used as a sweetener or to make beer and other spirits. Barley grass, on the other hand, must be done dry at low temperatures so that he can keep all his properties,
Powdered sprouts are used
Barley grass is the plant at its birth. It has a bright green color and a herbaceous taste. However, finding it fresh is very complex and growing it requires commitment and patience. For this the most practical solution is to take it in powder form. In fact, the fresh sprouts of the barley grass are cut, delicately dried and reduced to a very fine powder. “The highest quality barley grass is raw, processed at temperatures not exceeding 42 degrees, in such a way as to preserve the nutritional principles and maintain the original properties of the plant” explains Dr. Sabrina Cicolini, nutritionist biologist.
Barley grass prevents aging
We are used to drinking barley which is produced from the toasted seeds of the plant, but in this way many of its nutritional properties are lost. «Barley grass, on the other hand, is a concentrated source of vitamins (vitamin K, vitamin C and vitamin A), minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium), fibers and antioxidants» explains Dr. Sabrina Cicolini, nutritionist biologist. In particular this little-known superfood is a useful food for fight cell aging. “Barley grass, in fact, is rich in superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzyme that can counteract the effect of free radicals and can support cell regeneration» explains the expert.
A natural way to detox
Green like a meadow. Barley grass has this bright color because it is rich in chlorophyll. It is precisely this natural substance that gives it detox properties. That is, it helps to dispose of toxins and other waste that accumulate in the body due to a diet that is not always correct. Also, barley grass seems to be capable of prevent the accumulation of harmful substances such as heavy metals, which can have harmful effects on the body. And that unfortunately we take every day, with our diet.
Also useful against the heat
Barley grass is not only a natural detox but it is a booster for the vitamins it contains, which are present in the vitamin Awhich regulates immune function, cell growth and vision, the C vitaminwhich plays a central role in skin health, wound healing and oral health and the vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting, bone formation, heart health, and more. In the dried powder then there are also many mineral salts, such as magnesium and potassium, which in the summer helps not to feel too tired and to face the sultry days with more sprint.
Barley grass can also be added to centrifuged or smoothies. Getty Images
How can barley grass be consumed
Barley grass is a powder, so you can dissolve in a glass of water and drunk in the morning. Even just a teaspoon is enough, then if you want you can increase the dose. The flavor is somewhat reminiscent of fresh grass but is quite delicate, you can add a little lemon if you wish. The best way to consume it is to put it in smoothies, perfect for the summer season, or add it to extracts or cold herbal teas. Yes you can also sprinkle on some dishes, as a natural flavoring, as long as they are cold, like gazpacho, guacamole, or pasta salads. It is better not to put it on hot preparations, because it would lose some of its antioxidant properties due to the heat.
Can everyone consume it?
Generally the barley grass has no contraindicationi for adults if they are healthy. «Unlike barley seeds, grass does not have gluten, but those who are allergic to barley should avoid using it» explains Dr. Sabrina Cicolini, who is also a nutrition consultant for raw food. “It could also have interactions with some drugs and there is no evidence of its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding” clarifies the expert “In this case it is advisable to consult your doctor before using it”.
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