Who should not have barley water?

November 25, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 1% of the U.S. population suffers from celiac disease, a condition where consuming gluten, a protein found in barley, can cause serious health issues. For this reason and others, there are specific populations who should not have barley water, as it can pose significant health risks.

Quick Summary

Certain individuals should avoid barley water due to its gluten content, potential impact on blood sugar, and high fiber. This includes those with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, kidney disorders, and some digestive issues.

Key Points

Celiac Disease: Individuals with celiac disease must avoid barley water completely due to its gluten content, which triggers an autoimmune reaction.
Gluten Sensitivity: People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity should also steer clear of barley water to prevent adverse digestive and systemic symptoms caused by gluten.
Kidney Disease: Those with pre-existing kidney conditions need to consult a doctor, as the diuretic effect and potential potassium content can strain compromised kidneys.
Diabetes: Diabetics should use caution and seek medical advice, as barley water can significantly lower blood sugar levels and may interfere with medications.
IBS and Digestive Issues: The high fiber and fermentable fructan content can worsen symptoms like bloating and gas in individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome or sensitive digestion.
Barley Allergy: A confirmed barley allergy is a contraindication for consuming barley water, as it can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Overconsumption: Drinking excessively large amounts of barley water can cause digestive discomfort, bloating, and potential electrolyte imbalances.

Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease

Barley contains gluten, a protein that is harmful to individuals with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. For those with celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder, ingesting gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine lining, leading to malabsorption and long-term health complications. For individuals with non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming barley can trigger a range of unpleasant symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue, without causing intestinal damage.

Celiac Disease and Hordein

The specific type of gluten protein in barley is called hordein, which is structurally similar to the gliadin found in wheat. This similarity means that cross-reactivity is common, and consuming barley or barley derivatives, such as malt flavoring or malt vinegar, is strictly forbidden for anyone on a gluten-free diet. Even trace amounts from cross-contamination can cause a reaction.

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity and Hidden Sources

Those with non-celiac gluten sensitivity often report relief from symptoms when avoiding gluten. Because barley can be an ingredient in many processed foods and beverages, often under different names like 'malt' or 'natural flavorings', careful label reading is essential. For this group, avoiding barley water is a crucial step in managing their symptoms.

Pre-existing Kidney Conditions

While barley water is sometimes praised for its diuretic properties, which can help flush toxins and prevent kidney stones for healthy individuals, this effect can be a double-edged sword for people with pre-existing kidney issues. The increased urination can place additional strain on kidneys that are already struggling to function efficiently. Therefore, anyone with compromised kidney function or renal disease should consult a doctor before adding barley water to their diet. Furthermore, some barley water recipes call for lemon, and individuals with specific renal conditions need to monitor their potassium intake, making the addition of high-potassium ingredients a potential risk.

Diabetes and Blood Sugar Management

Barley has a notable effect on blood sugar levels, and while this can be beneficial for many, it poses a risk for people with diabetes. Drinking barley water might cause a more significant drop in blood sugar, potentially interfering with insulin or other glucose-lowering medications. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar closely and speak with their healthcare provider about any dietary changes, including the consumption of barley water, to ensure it doesn't cause a hypoglycemic event. It is also important to remember that many store-bought or sweetened barley water recipes can add unnecessary sugars, further complicating blood sugar management.

Digestive Sensitivities like IBS

The high fiber content of barley, particularly the fermentable fibers known as fructans, can trigger digestive distress in susceptible individuals. This is particularly relevant for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), as these short-chain carbohydrates can cause gas, bloating, and abdominal pain. Unstrained barley water, in particular, has a high fiber density that can be overwhelming for some digestive systems. To minimize discomfort, individuals with sensitive digestive tracts should introduce fiber gradually and in moderate amounts, or avoid barley water altogether if it causes negative symptoms.

Confirmed Barley Allergies

A small number of people have a specific IgE-mediated allergy to barley, which is distinct from celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. An allergic reaction can cause a range of symptoms, including skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and in severe cases, life-threatening anaphylaxis. Cross-reactivity with other cereal grains like wheat, rye, corn, and rice is also possible, meaning an allergy to one grain can increase the risk of an allergic reaction to barley. A known barley allergy is a clear contraindication for consuming barley water in any form.

Moderation vs. Avoidance: A Comparison


Condition / Status	Recommendation	Rationale
Healthy Individuals	Can consume in moderation	Rich in fiber and nutrients; most can tolerate well.
Celiac Disease	Absolute Avoidance	Gluten content (hordein) triggers autoimmune damage.
Gluten Sensitivity	Strict Avoidance	High fiber and fructans can cause digestive issues.
Kidney Disease	Medical Consultation	Diuretic effect may strain compromised kidneys.
Diabetes	Caution & Consultation	Can lower blood sugar and interfere with medications.
IBS	Avoidance or extreme caution	Fermentable fructans can exacerbate symptoms.
Barley Allergy	Absolute Avoidance	Risk of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Conclusion

While barley water offers numerous health benefits for many, it is not a suitable beverage for everyone. The presence of gluten and high fiber, combined with its effects on blood sugar and kidney function, makes it hazardous for individuals with certain medical conditions. Anyone with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, a barley allergy, pre-existing kidney problems, or diabetes must exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before consumption. Ultimately, understanding your own health needs and potential risks is paramount to making safe dietary choices.

Medical News Today: 5 benefits of barley water and how to make it

Frequently Asked Questions

No, barley water is not safe for people with celiac disease. Barley contains gluten, a protein that triggers an immune response and causes damage to the small intestine in those with the condition.

It is best to avoid barley water if you have a non-celiac gluten sensitivity. The gluten and fermentable fiber in barley can cause uncomfortable digestive symptoms, such as bloating and gas.

While barley water can be a mild diuretic, its effect can be too much for compromised kidneys, potentially putting added strain on them. It is crucial to consult a doctor before use if you have a kidney condition.

People with diabetes should be very cautious with barley water, as it can lower blood sugar levels and interact with diabetes medication. Blood sugar monitoring and medical consultation are necessary.

Yes, especially if consumed in large amounts or by someone with a sensitive stomach. Its high fiber content can lead to gas, bloating, and other digestive discomforts.

No, a barley allergy is a separate IgE-mediated immune reaction, while celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten. A barley allergy can result in symptoms like skin rashes and anaphylaxis.

Yes, ingredients like barley malt, malt extract, and natural flavorings derived from barley can contain gluten and may cause a reaction in sensitive individuals.