Why barley is useful for humans in dietary nutrition and cosmetology
Cereals have a special place on the menu of those who are serious about healthy eating. There are a huge number of such products, but we will consider how barley is useful for the human body. In the 1980s, it was often served in kindergartens, schools and hospitals. She was the main dish in the army cafeteria. Due to improper preparation, the barley's reputation was ruined. Therefore, the older generation sadly recalls the taste of "official" porridge. However, a close acquaintance with cereals will help to assess the true benefits of barley for the human body and include it in your diet.
Transformation into a pearl
The beneficial properties of pearl barley were known in ancient times. The famous figure Pythagoras used it as a dietary product. In his writings, he noted that pearl barley has a beneficial effect on memory and attentiveness. Regular consumption of porridge energizes the body. In the Roman Empire, cereals were prepared for gladiators, especially before entering the arena. On the territory of Russia, it was considered a "royal dish" for its excellent taste and ease of preparation. Even in the 21st century, the product is in great demand among buyers.
Today, several varieties of barley are known, which correspond to the standards adopted in the Soviet Union. It is sorted according to the grain size, after which it is assigned a serial number. For example, large oval-shaped "pearls" belong to groups No. 1 and No. 2. Each of them is marked with a dark longitudinal groove. Smaller spherical pearl barley is classified by numbers 3, 4, 5.
Based on this marking, cereals are called:
- "Ordinary";
- "Dutch";
- "Royal".
Each of them has dimensions that correspond to standards adopted in the 20th century. The most valuable today is “Ordinary” large pearl barley. Polished grains contain an abundance of fiber, therefore it is actively used by nutritionists. "Holland" has a round shape, is quick to cook and contains a large amount of carbohydrates. The smallest cereal - "Royal", is used as a valuable product for baby food.
100 g of porridge cooked in water contains 110 kcal.
Storage of valuable components
The deep research of scientists helped to reveal the secret of how barley is useful for human vital organs. They found a number of valuable components in cereals:
- fiber;
- vitamins (A, B, D, K, E, PP);
- proteins;
- alimentary fiber;
- carbohydrates;
- ash.
The product contains amino acids, monosaccharides, fatty acids (omega 3, 6, 9). And the abundance of minerals is simply amazing:
- magnesium;
- iron;
- zinc;
- phosphorus;
- selenium;
- potassium;
- sodium;
- calcium;
- manganese.
They are all important building blocks of the human body. Only regular consumption of the product helps to replenish the supply of chemical elements necessary for the coordinated work of internal systems.Let's consider in more detail the beneficial effect of the product on the body.
Why barley is useful for modern ladies
Every self-respecting woman strives to look beautiful and always be in shape. There are many options for how to achieve this. Diets help some people. Others go to the gym regularly or pool... However, understanding the benefits of barley for women helps to intelligently shape their diet. We will find out specific facts.
The presence of fiber in the cereal promotes bowel function. Often, doctors advise to regularly eat barley for those who:
- suffers from constipation;
- has gastritis;
- fights allergies.
The product is ideal for weight loss. The abundance of vitamins energizes the body with the energy that women need every day. Vitamin D has a beneficial effect on teeth and strengthens bones. Amino acid “Lysine synthesizes collagen in the body, which is responsible for the general condition of the skin. A homemade pearl barley mask will provide the face and neck with an abundance of nutrients.
For the case you will need:
- pearl barley (50 g);
- egg white (1 pc.);
- tomato juice (1 tbsp. L);
- chamomile or sandalwood essential oil (1-2 drops).
Grits are ground in a coffee grinder. Add egg white, juice and mix with a mixer. At the end, pour in a few drops of essential oil. The resulting mixture is applied to the face and neck. Hold for about 15 minutes. Wash off with cold water.
The simplest version of a cosmetic mask is made from pearl barley boiled in milk. The grains are rubbed well with a fork. The gruel is gently applied to problem areas of the skin of the face and neck.
As a result, visible changes occur:
- acne disappears;
- black spots;
- the release of fat decreases;
- elasticity appears.
Barley is a wonderful prophylactic agent for osteoporosis. After all, it contains more calcium than natural milk. For pregnant women, croup is a lifeline. It helps maintain the balance of minerals needed by the baby and expectant mother.
Eventually:
- metabolic processes are normalized;
- slags are removed from the body;
- the skeletal tissues of the baby are successfully formed;
- the production of erythrocytes is stimulated.
During lactation, pearl barley is introduced into the diet when the baby is at least one month old. A decoction of cereals promotes milk production.
In order not to cause diathesis in the child, it is advisable for nursing women to use barley in small portions.
Pearl porridge and gentlemen
Men who served in the army recall the soldier's mess with disdain. It is often called "shrapnel" or "tarpaulin". Those who think so do not even suspect how valuable "army" food is. We will find out how barley is useful for men who are ready to include it in their diet.
The components that make up cereals normalize blood cholesterol levels. Helps strengthen blood vessels and heart muscle. This is especially important for gentlemen over 40 years old. During this period, they are especially vulnerable, since there is a threat of stroke or heart attack.
As you know, many men like to drink intoxicated drinks, smoke cigarettes and eat a hearty meal. As a result, the liver is disrupted. Healthy food comes to the rescue, and, of course, "pearl" porridge. The presence of dietary fiber, fatty acids and trace elements stimulates the elimination of toxins from the body. The intestines are working 100%. This means that a man is always in shape and ready to provide for his family.
Amino acids and vitamins help to strengthen the immune system. Therefore, regular consumption of barley is a reliable shield against all sorts of infections.
In addition, pearl groats contain an abundance of selenium. The element has a positive effect on the work:
- hearts;
- endocrine system;
- blood flow.
Men are becoming more active in life. Easily tolerate stressful situations. They are not in danger of developing malignant tumors.They suffer from respiratory diseases less. The abundance of vitamin A improves the organs of hearing and vision. Stimulates hair growth, which is one of the important factors in a gentleman's life. Phosphorus increases hemoglobin levels. PP components support the nervous system.
In the postoperative period, doctors advise men to eat barley porridge so that the body recovers faster.
Children's body and barley
Pediatricians say that polished cereals are too “heavy” for babies. They advise introducing it into the diet only in the fourth year of life. At this age, the child's digestive system is ready to accept "solid" food. However, you should start with small portions. After the meal, the parents carefully observe how the product is absorbed.
If the child's body does not tolerate gluten, the following symptoms will appear:
- loose stools with the presence of foam;
- stool with a creepy smell;
- undigested elements;
- bloating of the abdomen;
- hives;
- aching pain in the intestines;
- lack of appetite.
In this case, you should contact your family doctor. If the meal was successful, the next time the portion is increased. Over time, the porridge is supplemented with butter, vegetables, raisins and other ingredients. It is added to soups, served with gravy, or as a side dish for meat products.
Pediatricians pay special attention to parents on the real benefits of barley for children during the formation of the body. Elements such as phosphorus and calcium are needed for bone tissue. Selenium tones muscles, fights allergies. Zinc stimulates the elimination of toxins from the blood. Protects against infections that the child's body is exposed to. Vitamins improve the ability to remember, which is important in adolescence.
When buying pearl barley, you should pay attention to the appearance of the grains, aroma and color.
Having carefully researched what barley is useful for, it is not surprising its popularity. In the 80s, porridge was served for lunch in the Soviet Army, schools and kindergartens. Information about the chemical composition made the cereal a valuable delicacy. Her dignity was appreciated by military leaders, educators, and teachers. It remains to buy "pearl" grains in the supermarket and prepare a gorgeous dish for the next family meal.