Organic Pearl Barley, Food to Live

Benefits

• Helps maintain normal thyroid function
• Contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress
• Helps maintain normal immune system function
• Contributes to normal hair and nail maintenance
• Helps relieve the effects of low dietary selenium when intake is inadequate
• Contributes to normal sperm production

What people commonly use it for

• Feeling run down (Good evidence when selenium intake is low)
• Dull hair and brittle nails (Good evidence when selenium intake is low)
• Antioxidant support (Good clinical evidence of the role of selenoproteins)
• Seasonal immune support (Some clinical studies suggest benefits)
• Low energy (Good evidence only when selenium is low)

Suggested to use alongside

• Vitamin E: Antioxidants work well together
• Zinc: Essential mineral for general health
• Iodine: Works with selenium in thyroid function

Selenium works through about 25 selenoproteins, in which the amino acid selenocysteine is built into the protein. Key families include the glutathione peroxidases, which neutralise peroxides and help protect cell membranes, and the iodothyronine deiodinases, which convert thyroid hormone T4 into the active T3. This is why selenium and iodine work together in the thyroid. Thioredoxin reductases also help control cellular redox balance.

The recommended dietary intake for Australian adults is about 60 micrograms a day for women and 70 for men, with an upper limit of 400 micrograms (NHMRC Nutrient Reference Values; NIH Office of Dietary Supplements).

Low selenium status can be linked with fatigue, brittle nails and a weaker immune response. Forms differ:

• Selenomethionine: an organic form from yeast and food, well absorbed and stored in body proteins.
• Sodium selenite: an inorganic form, absorbed efficiently and used directly for selenoproteins.
• Selenium-enriched yeast: contains a mix of organic forms.

There is only a narrow gap between enough and too much, which is why careful dosing matters. Excess selenium can cause garlic breath, hair loss and brittle nails, so please stick to the dose on the label.

• Vegan
• Organic
• Non-GMO

• Suitable for Vegetarians
• Suitable for Vegans

•Food to Live Certified Organic Pearled Barley are free from any contaminants.

Is Organic Barley Gluten-Free?

The organic barley grain is not gluten-free. Therefore, you should avoid it the same you do wheat and rye if you are sensitive to this protein. However, there are ways to enjoy the nutritional benefits of barley even if you can’t consume the seeds directly.

If you read the labels of many sweet products, you are likely to find some type of malt in the list of ingredients.

Organic Barley malt extract might be safe for a gluten-free diet as it contains only a small amount of this protein. However, if you are highly sensitive or just want to stay on the safe side, avoid this product.

Note that certified gluten-free products cannot contain any malt. You also should be aware that determining the amount of malt (and therefore gluten) in a food is very difficult. Tests for this particular element produce different results based on the technique used.

Due to its content of these particular minerals, organic barley juice is very good for vegans and vegetarians. Plant-based diets might be lacking in iron and zinc, in particular, because they mostly come from meat and seafood.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

Supplier ref: Organic Pearl Barley – Non-Gmo, Kosher, Raw, Vegan – by Food to Live

What does selenium do?

Selenium is built into antioxidant enzymes and helps convert thyroid hormones to their active form. It also supports normal immune function.

What foods are high in selenium?

Brazil nuts are one of the richest sources, with just one or two providing a day's needs. Seafood, eggs and meat also contribute.

Which form of selenium is best?

Selenomethionine and sodium selenite are both well absorbed. Selenomethionine is stored in body proteins, while selenite is used directly.

When should I take selenium?

Take it with a meal to minimise stomach upset. It does not matter what time of day, as long as you are consistent.

Can I take too much selenium?

Yes. The upper limit is 400 micrograms a day for adults from all sources. Signs of too much include garlic breath, hair loss and brittle nails.

How long does selenium take to work?

If your levels are low, it can take several weeks to months to rebuild stores of selenoproteins.

Do not exceed the dose on the label, and count Brazil nuts and multivitamins towards your total. People with thyroid conditions should seek medical advice before use. Consult your doctor if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking blood thinners or chemotherapy medicines.

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