Barley News & Updates
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New heart-healthy barley unveiled at MSU Published: April 30, 2008 New heart-healthy barley unveiled at MSU Source: Montana’s News Station- Click here for video clip. Barley isn’t just for beer drinkers anymore... that was the message delivered on Tuesday at Montana State University, where scientists and researchers unveiled a new heart-healthy barley. Researchers say BGLife Barley is a new strain that promotes healthy blood sugar and is proven to reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure and help control weight. The BG stands for beta-glucan, a water-soluble fiber that does not exist in wheat, rice, corn or rye. On average, barley has more beta-glucan than oats, and BGLife barley has 50% more beta-glucan than general barley. Developers say eating barley with more fiber is vital to battling diabetes and obesity, and according to the Food and Drug Administration, eating foods that contain barley reduces the risk of coronary heart disease. Governor Brian Schweitzer congratulated MSU-trained researchers on putting nearly 30 years into this patented barley variety. "Nutriceuticals have become a big part of the language for farmers, and this is another example where farmers can grow now just a food product, but a food product that will be healthy for those who eat it." "The beta glucan has so many complimentary attributes to health management and diet management because of the soluble fiber that it is in it" explains Ron Ueland of Westbred, LLC. "We have to get people to look for beta glucan in food products. This is a big deal." |
