Barley (jau), a member of grass family, is a cereal that has been cultivated for over 13,000 years. Packed with carbohydrates (78%), fat (1%), protein (10%) and water (10%), barley is a rich source of essential nutrients, dietary fibre, vitamins such as niacin, manganese, phosphorus and vitamin B6.
With several health benefits to its name, Barley water is termed as the Elixir to good health. It has been found to be beneficial in reducing chances of heart disease, soothing bowels, reducing blood cholesterol levels, improving blood sugar regulation in the body and acts as nutritive broth for fever, cold and cough. Additionally, studies support that Barley water has also been found to play an integral role in maintaining Renal Health.
What is a Renal Stone?
A Renal stone is a solid stony piece consisting of crystal forming substances in the urinary tract. They are usually formed when the urine is abundant in substances such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid and lack substances that inhibit their accumulation. While small kidney stones can pass through the urinary system without any symptoms, a stone larger than 5 mm can result in blockages in the urinary tract causing severe pain in the back and lower abdomen.
What causes Renal Stones?
-A family history for stones, lack of adequate water in the body, high BMI, excessive intake of diets rich in protein, sodium and sugar have been found to be some of the common causes for stone formation.
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-Medical conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, inflammatory bowel syndrome and renal tubular acidosis have also been found to alter the digestion of calcium.
How Does Barley Water Aid The Dissolution Of Renal Stones?
Studies show that regular use of barley water can dissolve and eliminate existing kidney stones and prevent the occurrence of stones and other kidney problems. Use of diuretics either natural or synthetic can help speed up the expulsion of the stone.
–Diuretic in nature, barley water helps to flush toxins from the kidneys by creating bladder pressure and increasing the frequency of urination.
-It helps maintain the pH levels in the body, making it alkaline, preventing various urinary tract issues, including kidney stones.
-The Vitamin B6 and magnesium in barley helps break down the masses of toxic calcium Oxalate (primary cause for stones) in the kidney.
–Dietary fibre in barley reduces the amount of calcium that is excreted by the body through urine, restoring renal health and cleansing the kidneys.
Ways To Prepare Barley Water
-Boil 1 litre of water with a tablespoon of barley pearls and boil on a low flame for about 30 minutes or until the water has reduced to half.
-Strain and cool this mix and drink it through the day.
-Add lemon juice or honey to make the mix tasty
Regular use of Barley water ensures that the renal system is hydrated, healthy and free of depositions such as renal stones. So, go ahead and add this elixir to your diet to ensure a healthy renal system and a healthier you. Eat Healthy, Stay Healthy!