Barley and Vitamins

Barley is a grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture. The raw, whole barley grain contains vitamins, minerals and fibers. The raw, whole barley grain is a healthier choice than pearl barley, which doesn't contain most of these nutrients and fibers because they have been removed during processing. If you aren't allergic to barley, consider using this grain more frequently in your diet because it provides vitamins B1, B3, lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as essential minerals and fibers. Talk to a nutritionist to find out more about the benefits of barley.

Vitamin B1

Vitamin B1 or thiamine is necessary for converting sugars into energy. It's also involved in the metabolism of fats and proteins. Thiamine plays a role in the health of the immune system and helps dealing you with emotional stress. Healthy levels of this vitamin in your body prevent medical conditions like beriberi and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.

Sixty grams of raw whole grain barley provides 0.4 mg of vitamin B1, where the recommended dietary allowance for thiamin is between 1.3 and 1.6 mg.

Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3, or niacin, is involved in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins and is also necessary for optimal health of the skin, eyes, liver, and the nervous system. Niacin plays a role in the production of some hormones and also helps to reduce blood cholesterol levels.

Sixty grams of raw whole grain barley provides 2.8 mg of vitamin B3, where the recommended dietary allowance for niacin is between 13 and 20 mg.

Carotenoids

Barley contains lutein and zeaxanthin , which are plant compounds called carotenoids. Vitamin A found in fruits and vegetables is called provitamin A carotenoid. Some provitamins A are converted in vitamin A in the body, while other provitamins A like lutein and zeaxanthin aren't transformed into vitamin A. However, lutein and zeaxanthin have health promoting qualities and therefore consuming foods that are rich in these two nutrients is recommended by the National Institutes of Health.These two substances are called provitamins A because are related to this vitamin. Lutein and zeaxanthin help protect the eyesight and promote eye health.

Sixty grams of raw whole grain barley provides 96 mcg of lutein and zeaxanthin combined. According to the National Institutes of Health, there is no recommended dietary allowance for carotenoids. Nevertheless, you are encouraged to consume foods each day that contain carotenoids because they contribute to your overall health.

Considerations

Beside vitamins, raw whole grain barley also contains minerals like selenium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, calcium, iron, fibers, proteins and carbohydrates. Thus, barley is a good source of several nutrients important for your health. Keep in mind that barley is a food, and therefore doesn't replace and should not be used as a substitute for any drugs that you're currently taking.