What will happen if we drink barley water every day?

December 28, 2025 •

5 min read

According to traditional medicine and a growing body of research, regular consumption of barley water can offer numerous health benefits, from improved kidney function to better digestive health. But what will happen if we drink barley water every day, and is it a good idea for everyone? This daily practice can significantly impact your well-being, both positively and negatively, depending on your health and how you prepare it.

Quick Summary

Consuming barley water daily can aid digestion, support kidney function, regulate blood sugar, and contribute to weight management. It may also lead to digestive issues due to high fiber intake and should be avoided by individuals with gluten intolerance. Moderation is key for reaping the benefits without side effects.

Key Points

Digestive Regularity: Daily consumption promotes consistent, healthy bowel movements and nurtures gut bacteria.
Kidney and Urinary Support: Its diuretic properties help flush toxins, cleanse the kidneys, and may prevent UTIs and stones.
Blood Sugar Control: The fiber helps stabilize blood glucose levels, making it beneficial for diabetes management.
Heart Health Booster: Regular intake can help lower bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Weight Management Aid: The high fiber promotes satiety, helping to reduce appetite and control weight.
Skin and Hair Health: Antioxidants and vitamins contribute to radiant skin and healthier hair by fighting free-radical damage.
Celiac and Gluten Intolerance Warning: As a gluten-containing grain, barley water is not suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity and should be avoided.
Medication Interaction: Individuals on blood sugar medication should consult a doctor before drinking barley water daily due to its glucose-lowering effects.
Moderation is Key: Excessive intake can cause digestive upset like bloating and gas, so sticking to 1-2 glasses a day is recommended.
Homemade is Best: For maximum health benefits and to avoid added sugars, unsweetened homemade barley water is the preferred choice.

The Proven Benefits of Daily Barley Water Intake

Drinking barley water daily can provide a consistent and gentle boost to your body's functions. The primary driver of these benefits is barley's rich nutritional profile, which includes soluble and insoluble fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like selenium, manganese, and iron.

Improved Digestive Health and Regulation

One of the most immediate effects of daily barley water is improved digestion. The high fiber content acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and promoting a healthy microbiome. This can lead to more regular bowel movements and relief from common issues like constipation.

Enhanced Kidney and Urinary Tract Function

Barley water is a natural diuretic, meaning it promotes urination. This helps flush out toxins and cleanse the kidneys and urinary tract. It can be a natural remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and is believed to help prevent kidney stones.

Stable Blood Sugar Levels

The soluble fiber in barley, specifically beta-glucan, helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose. This prevents rapid blood sugar spikes after meals, making it a valuable drink for people with or at risk of developing diabetes.

Lowering Cholesterol and Boosting Heart Health

Studies suggest that the beta-glucan fiber in barley can help lower bad (LDL) cholesterol levels. The antioxidants, like tocols, also work to clear artery blockages, contributing to better overall cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Aids in Weight Management

Barley water is known for its ability to promote a feeling of fullness due to its high fiber content. This can help curb appetite and reduce overall calorie intake, supporting weight loss goals as part of a balanced diet. Opting for an unsweetened version is crucial for this benefit.

Skin and Hair Nourishment

The antioxidants and selenium in barley water can protect the body from free-radical damage, which can delay the signs of aging. By helping to flush out toxins, it can also lead to clearer, healthier, and more radiant-looking skin. The minerals present also support healthier hair growth.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Daily Consumption

While the benefits are plentiful, daily intake of barley water can pose risks for some individuals and lead to side effects if consumed in excess or incorrectly. It is crucial to be aware of these potential downsides to ensure safe and healthy consumption.

Digestive Discomfort from High Fiber

Consuming too much barley water, especially if you are not accustomed to a high-fiber diet, can lead to uncomfortable digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and loose stools. Gradually introducing it into your diet and drinking in moderation can help mitigate this.

Risk for Gluten-Sensitive Individuals

Barley is a gluten-containing grain. For people with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, drinking barley water can trigger an autoimmune response leading to a range of symptoms, including rashes, digestive upset, and indigestion. It is essential for those with gluten-related conditions to avoid barley water.

Interaction with Medications

Since barley water can lower blood sugar levels, it may interact with diabetes medications and cause blood sugar to drop too low. It is best to consult a healthcare provider before making daily barley water part of your routine if you are on any medication for blood sugar management.

Calorie Control is Important

While barley water can aid weight loss, it's important to be mindful of its calorie content, particularly if you're adding sweeteners like honey or sugar. Unsweetened homemade versions are best for health benefits. Excessive intake of sweetened barley water could lead to unintended weight gain.

How to Safely Incorporate Barley Water into Your Routine

To maximize the benefits of barley water while minimizing risks, consider these best practices:

Start Slowly: If you are new to barley water, begin with half a glass and observe how your body reacts before increasing the amount.
Stay within the Limit: For most healthy adults, 1-2 glasses of unsweetened homemade barley water per day is an adequate amount to enjoy the benefits without overdoing it.
Make it Fresh: Homemade barley water is the freshest and most nutritious option, as store-bought versions often contain added sugars and preservatives.
Flavor Naturally: Enhance the flavor with fresh lemon juice, mint, or a slice of ginger instead of relying on added sweeteners.
Consult a Professional: Always speak with a doctor or dietitian, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or gluten intolerance.

Comparison: Daily Barley Water vs. Occasional Intake


Feature	Daily Barley Water Intake	Occasional Barley Water Intake
Digestive Regulation	Consistent intake helps maintain regular bowel movements and gut health.	Provides temporary relief from constipation or digestive issues.
Hydration & Detoxification	Continuous hydration and flushing of toxins from the kidneys.	Good for rehydration after illness or exercise.
Blood Sugar Management	Sustained effect on regulating blood sugar and insulin spikes.	Can help manage blood sugar after a single high-carb meal.
Cholesterol Reduction	May lead to a gradual and more significant reduction in LDL cholesterol.	Offers minor, short-term benefits; less impact on overall levels.
Weight Management	Fiber-rich content promotes daily satiety, supporting long-term weight goals.	Provides a temporary feeling of fullness, but less effective for sustained management.
Risk of Side Effects	Higher risk of digestive issues (gas, bloating) if not accustomed or consumed in excess.	Minimal risk of side effects as fiber intake is not sustained.
Nutrient Consistency	Ensures a consistent daily supply of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.	Provides a concentrated dose of nutrients, but inconsistent.
Gluten Exposure	Continual exposure for those with sensitivity, must be avoided.	Still a risk for those with celiac or gluten intolerance, even in small amounts.

Conclusion

Drinking barley water every day can be a powerful health tonic, supporting everything from heart and kidney health to digestion and weight management. Its rich fiber and antioxidant content make it a beneficial addition to many diets. However, it is not a magic cure and must be consumed responsibly. Moderation is essential, as excessive intake can lead to digestive discomfort. For individuals with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, barley water must be avoided altogether. As with any significant dietary change, the key is to listen to your body, choose the right preparation, and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have an underlying health condition. Incorporating a single glass of unsweetened, homemade barley water into your daily routine can be a safe and effective way to enjoy its many proven benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

For most healthy people, it is recommended to drink 1 to 2 glasses of unsweetened, homemade barley water daily. Starting with a smaller amount and gradually increasing can help your digestive system adjust to the higher fiber content.

No, barley water is not safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, as barley contains gluten. It is crucial for them to avoid all forms of barley to prevent an adverse reaction.

Yes, barley water can support weight loss. Its high fiber content helps you feel full for longer, which can reduce cravings and overall calorie intake. For best results, use unsweetened, homemade barley water.

Yes, you can add natural flavorings to homemade barley water. Popular options include a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, mint leaves, or a slice of ginger. Avoid adding sugar or artificial sweeteners, especially if you're monitoring your calorie intake or blood sugar.

Drinking too much barley water can lead to digestive discomfort, including gas, bloating, stomach cramps, and loose stools, especially for those not used to a high-fiber diet. Moderate intake is essential.

Barley water acts as a diuretic, which helps flush toxins from the body and support healthy kidney function. It is often recommended as a natural remedy for urinary tract infections and to help prevent kidney stones.

Barley water can offer benefits during pregnancy, such as aiding digestion and reducing water retention. However, pregnant women should always consult their healthcare provider before introducing new foods or beverages into their daily diet.

To get the most nutrients, it is best to prepare homemade, unsweetened barley water. Boil pearl or hulled barley in water until it softens and the liquid becomes cloudy. Strain the liquid and enjoy.