Side effects and risks of barley tea
Barley tea is made from roasted barley grains or barley malt. Excessive consumption may lead to certain side effects and health risks, including diarrhea and allergic reactions. The main risks include impaired gastrointestinal absorption and overstimulation symptoms. Detailed analysis is as follows:
I. Side Effects
1. Diarrhea
Barley tea contains a high amount of dietary fiber. Drinking too much, especially for individuals with weak digestive systems, may cause diarrhea or gastrointestinal discomfort.
2. Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may be allergic to components in barley tea, such as malt or barley husk, leading to allergic symptoms like skin itching or difficulty breathing.
In addition, nursing women who consume barley tea may experience reduced breast milk production.
II. Health Risks
1. Impaired Gastrointestinal Absorption
Barley tea contains glutaminase, an enzyme that breaks down glutamine. Glutamine is essential for protein digestion and absorption; therefore, excessive intake of barley tea may interfere with the gastrointestinal tract's ability to absorb glutamine.
2. Overstimulation Symptoms
Barley tea contains certain bioactive substances such as caffeine and flavonoids, which have stimulating effects. Excessive consumption may lead to symptoms of overexcitement, such as palpitations and dizziness.
Moreover, barley tea contains tannic acid. Overconsumption may impair iron absorption, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, it is recommended to consume barley tea under medical guidance to avoid adverse effects.