Calories in Barley: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Barley is an ancient cereal grain prized for its chewy texture and nutty flavor. Pearled barley is an excellent source of dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, and also provides manganese, selenium, copper, and B vitamins. Here is a full breakdown of barley nutrition by serving size.

Calories by serving size:

Barley stands out among grains for its exceptionally high soluble fiber content. One cup of cooked pearled barley provides about 6 grams of fiber, much of which is beta-glucan, the same heart-healthy soluble fiber found in oats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between pearled and hulled barley?

Pearled barley has had its outer hull and bran layer removed through polishing, which reduces cooking time and gives it a softer texture. Hulled barley retains the bran and is higher in fiber (about 14 g per cooked cup versus 6 g for pearled) and slightly more nutritious overall. However, hulled barley takes significantly longer to cook, often up to an hour.

What is beta-glucan fiber and why is barley a good source?

Beta-glucan is a soluble fiber that forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract, which helps slow the absorption of sugar and cholesterol. Barley is one of the richest natural sources of beta-glucan, with about 2.5 to 3 grams per cooked cup of pearled barley. The FDA has approved a health claim linking beta-glucan consumption from barley to reduced risk of heart disease.

Is barley gluten-free?

No, barley contains gluten and is not safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Barley contains a gluten protein called hordein that triggers the same immune response as wheat gluten. People who need to avoid gluten should choose alternatives like rice, quinoa, or buckwheat.

How does barley compare to rice nutritionally?

Barley has a notable nutritional advantage over white rice in fiber content. A cup of cooked pearled barley has about 6 grams of fiber compared to less than 1 gram in a cup of white rice. Barley also has a lower glycemic index, which means it produces a more gradual rise in blood sugar after eating.

Can barley help lower cholesterol?

Yes, research consistently shows that the beta-glucan fiber in barley can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Studies indicate that consuming 3 grams of beta-glucan daily from barley or oats can reduce LDL cholesterol by 5 to 10 percent. Including barley regularly in soups, stews, or as a side dish is a practical way to reach this amount.