What is the glycemic index of barley?
According to the January app, the glycemic index of barley is 28. This is considered Low. By looking up barley in the January app, you can quickly see the glycemic index of that food as well as the glycemic load. This information can help guide your dietary choices.
What impact will this have on my blood sugar levels?
When you eat barley, your blood sugar levels will not rise much. This is because of the low glycemic index of barley. Foods with a high glycemic index can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, while foods with a low glycemic index will cause a more gradual increase.
When using the January app, we can see the calories, macros, and glycemic index (GI) / glycemic load (GL) of that food item. But here's the best part: We can also see our predicted blood sugar response, without requiring you to wear a sensor.
Can people with diabetes eat barley?
Barley, with its low glycemic index, is generally considered a good option for people with diabetes as it has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. However, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs.
What are the health benefits of barley?
Barley is a nutritious grain that offers numerous health benefits. It is high in fiber, which can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy gut. The fiber content also helps in regulating blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes. Barley is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, and B vitamins, which are essential for overall health.
Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional information for barley:
- Calories: 354 per 100g
- Protein: 12.5g per 100g
- Fat: 2.3g per 100g
- Carbohydrates: 73.5g per 100g
- Fiber: 17.3g per 100g
- Calcium: 33mg per 100g
- Potassium: 452mg per 100g
- Sodium: 12mg per 100g
- Vitamin C: 0mg per 100g
What are some healthy alternatives to barley?
There are several healthy alternatives to barley that you can include in your diet. Quinoa, for instance, is a gluten-free grain that is high in protein and fiber. Brown rice is another excellent alternative that is rich in nutrients and has a moderate glycemic index. Whole wheat and oats are also good options, offering various health benefits and dietary fiber.
Conclusion
Barley, with its low glycemic index and rich nutritional profile, is a healthy choice for those looking to maintain stable blood sugar levels and improve their overall health. Including barley in your diet can offer you numerous benefits, from improved digestion to better nutrient intake. However, always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice, especially if you have health conditions like diabetes.
Use January to see your predicted blood sugar before you eat
To check the glycemic index of over 32M foods, as well as see your predicted blood sugar response before you eat them, use the January app. It’s completely free to download and use and it provides you with a treasure trove of nutritional and glucose insights to help you achieve your health goals.
FAQs about Barley
Does the glycemic index of barley change when it is processed into different forms, like flour versus whole grain?
Yes, the glycemic index of barley can vary depending on its form. Whole grain barley has a lower glycemic index compared to barley flour due to the presence of more fiber and complex carbohydrates in the whole grain, which slow down digestion and absorption of sugars.
Is there a difference in the glycemic index of barley when consumed hot versus cold?
Interestingly, the glycemic index of barley can be slightly lower when it is consumed cold. This is because the cooling process can form resistant starch in the barley, which is less digestible and can result in a slower release of glucose into the bloodstream.
Does the time of day affect how barley impacts blood sugar levels?
While the glycemic index of barley itself does not change, consuming it at different times of the day could affect blood sugar levels differently. Metabolic rates and insulin sensitivity can fluctuate throughout the day, usually being higher in the morning and lower in the evening. Therefore, consuming barley in the morning might have a slightly less pronounced impact on blood sugar levels compared to consuming it later in the day.
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