Barley Compounds May Help Weight Management Goals

Previously, animal models suggest that gut microbial metabolism may affect host metabolism, including appetite regulating hormones.   Elin V Johansson, from Lund University (Sweden), and colleagues evaluated the potential effects of a whole grain barley kernel product, rich in intrinsic indigestible carbohydrates (dietary fiber and resistant starch), on markers of metabolism and appetite regulation in healthy men and women. The team enrolled 19 young adults, each of whom was randomly assigned to consume late evening meals with additional boiled barley kernels, or white wheat bread.  Blood samples were collected during the following breakfast and lunch times.  The barley kernels associated with an increase in glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1), a satiety hormone, as compared to white bread. Further, the group consuming the barley kernels experienced a decrease in free fatty acid levels and reduced inflammatory markers.  The team also observed a significant reduction in energy intake during lunch the next day among the barley consumers, as compared to the white bread group.   The study authors conclude that: “The results indicate that the [barley kernel]  evening meal, facilitate glucose regulation, increase the release of GLP-1, reduce subsequent energy intake while at the same time decreasing hunger over 2 subsequent meals, and fasting ;free fatty acids] the subsequent morning, possibly mediated through gut microbial fermentation of the indigestible carbohydrates.”