Why Is Barley Bad for You

Additionally, barley contains short-chain carbohydrates called fructans, which are a fermentable type of fiber. Fructans may cause gas and bloating in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive disorders ( 28 ). Therefore, if you have IBS or a sensitive digestive tract, you may want to avoid barley.

Can you eat barley as rice?

You can use hulled barley as a substitute for other whole grains, such as rice, quinoa, oats or buckwheat.

Is barley better for you than rice?

If you’re on a gluten-free diet, brown rice is the clear winner, because barley contains gluten. Brown rice also has over five times more folate and vitamin E. However, barley has twice the calcium and fibre and about 30 per cent fewer calories. The two are equivalent in protein and fat content.