Barley Tea: A Low-Calorie Beverage Supporting Weight Loss, Beautiful Skin, and Good Health
Barley tea is a traditional beverage popular in Japan and Korea, increasingly favored by many for its mild aroma, easy-to-drink flavor, low calorie content, and complete absence of caffeine. More than just a coffee substitute, barley tea also provides a variety of beneficial nutrients such as protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals including iron, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and silicon.
Supporting Weight Management and Cardiovascular Health
According to research from Shizuoka University (Japan), barley tea contains para-coumaric acid—an antioxidant compound capable of neutralizing free radicals, contributing to a reduced risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.
With its low calorie content and lack of caffeine, barley tea is suitable for those managing their weight or looking to replace high-calorie beverages.
The barley roasting process generates numerous antioxidant compounds and a characteristic aroma, while also contributing to improved blood circulation. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan, barley tea also contains GABA—a naturally occurring amino acid that helps regulate blood triglycerides and cholesterol, promotes sodium excretion, thereby reducing water retention and supporting weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
However, experts note that there is currently not enough strong scientific evidence to claim that barley tea alone can lead to dramatic weight loss in a short period. Therefore, this tea should only be considered a supportive beverage within a healthy lifestyle, rather than a standalone weight-loss solution.
Contributing to Beautiful Skin and Digestive Improvement
Beyond aiding weight management, barley tea is also favored by many Japanese women for its benefits to the skin. This tea is rich in zinc and silicon—two minerals involved in collagen synthesis that also help regulate melanin metabolism, resulting in a more even-toned and healthier complexion.
A study by Kyoto Pharmaceutical University also showed that barley tea extract has the ability to protect the intestinal mucosa, contributing to maintaining digestive health and reducing the risk of complications in people with diabetes.
In addition, with its cooling properties, barley tea helps relieve internal heat, reduce water retention, and bring a refreshing, pleasant feeling to the body, especially on hot days.