Benefits
Barley beta-glucan is scientifically proven to lower cholesterol and maintain healthy glucose levels after meals. National Health Agencies like Health Canada, the US FDA, the European EFSA, and Latin American have approved health and wellness claims for barley beta-glucan (health claims vary by country).
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Barley Balance® is a 23% barley beta-glucan concentrate, making it easy to achieve daily dosages required for health claims.
How Barley Balance works as a nutraceutical ingredient?
Barley Balance contains 23% barley beta-glucan. Barley beta-glucan is a soluble fiber extracted from the cell walls of barley grains. its natural structure, along with the solubility, and high molecular weight, allows barley beta-glucan to produce diverse responses in the body. These responses include:
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Lowering LDL and total cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease
The beta-glucan creates a viscous lining on the intestine that binds to bile acids, reducing their absorption into the liver. As a result, the liver will produce new bile acids from cholesterol already in the body, reducing the amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood. Bound bile acids cannot be reabsorbed and they leave through the digestive tract.
2
Moderating blood sugar levels after meals, resulting in more consistent energy and satiety.
Barley beta-glucan soluble fibres have been proven to help regulate blood sugar levels between meals. This helps to prevent fluctuations in energy and focus caused by rapid absorption of glucose into the bloodstream after eating.
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Soluble fibres, like barley beta-glucan, create a gel-like substance in the intestines. This lining slows the digestion of carbohydrates and sugar, resulting in a slower and more consistent absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. A slower, more steady digestion of glucose helps avoiding the feeling of “sugar spikes” between meals, and leaves the sensation of feeling fuller for longer, which may help to eat less throughout the day and control weight.
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Supporting and maintaining a healthy digestive system
Barley beta-glucan has been linked with numerous prebiotic benefits that improve the health of the gut microbiome. A prebiotic has been defined as a food component that is fermentable by beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Intestinal microbiota metabolizes barley beta-glucan soluble fiber leading to increased levels of short chain fatty acids, that keep colon cells healthy improving overall gut health.
Barley Balance also contains insoluble fibre which is indigestible. This insoluble fibre helps to trap and remove waste in the digestive system, promoting bowel function and reducing the chances of experiencing gastrointestinal blockage and/or constipation.
