Barley’s Many Benefits Spark Resurgence As A Health Food

Barley, once a food staple of the ancient world, over the centuries has been largely replaced by wheat. And though it is still used in the beer brewing process, barley is nowadays mainly used as animal feed. But barley is enjoying a resurgence as a health food, at least in Canada, according to Liane Faulder. Health Canada, for example, recently approved the claim that barley lowers cholesterol; the fiber in barley helps maintain insulin levels, a benefit for diabetics; and barley supports regularity and satiety, which benefits weight watchers. Barley flour is gaining popularity because of the “slightly nutty” flavor it adds to quick breads and because it keeps baked goods moist longer. On the horizon: new barley-based products, such as barley pastas and chips.