Christian Philippsen, Managing Director, BENEO, Asia Pacific
As we navigate the complexities of ageing, the quest for longevity and vitality has never been more paramount. Heart health plays a central role in this journey, with 63 per cent of global consumers saying that they are interested in products that can improve their cardiovascular health, even when not suffering from specific health problems[1]. Heart health is a key concern for consumers of all ages and a balanced diet should be at their focus to prevent chronic diseases.
We are what we eat — and with coronary heart disease (CHD) ranked the leading cause of death worldwide, incorporating whole grains and fibre as part of a healthy diet can play a crucial role in lowering the risk of CHD and promoting overall longevity.
Ancient Grain, Modern Miracle
Enter barley — an ancient grain that is garnering attention for its remarkable health benefits. In particular, its role in promoting healthy ageing. Rich in beta-glucans, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, barley is not just a dietary staple, but one that offers a wide array of health benefits, especially for heart health.
At the core of its health benefits are beta-glucans, a form of soluble fibre that has been shown to support heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and improving overall cardiovascular function.
As consumers become increasingly health-savvy and seek out nutritional information, it’s no surprise that 1 in 2 people globally have heard of beta-glucans[2]. This also opens opportunities for manufacturers who can tap into the rising demand for nutrient-rich foods that support long-term health.
Heart Health Hero: Orafti® β-Fit
Beta-glucans are naturally present in cereals, like oats and barley. BENEO’s Orafti® β-Fit, made from barley and containing 20% beta-glucans, can be labelled as beta-glucan-rich barley flour. So how do they work?
Present as soluble viscous fibres in Orafti® β-Fit, these beta-glucans help make the consumed food thicker, thus delaying the passage through the digestive system. This is particularly beneficial for those with high LDL cholesterol levels as it is a key risk factor for developing heart disease. Orafti® β-Fit binds bile acids which are then excreted from the body. As bile acids are required for fat digestion, the liver compensates by forming new bile acids from cholesterol, effectively lowering LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. By reducing the LDL levels with Orafti® β-Fit in their diet plans, it offers consumers a solution to reduce their risk for coronary heart disease.
With a total fibre content of 40 per cent (inclusive of beta-glucans), Orafti® β-Fit also promotes digestive health by promoting bowel regularity and supporting gut microbiota for enhanced nutrient absorption— which is essential for maintaining vitality as we age.
Lower Your Cholesterol Naturally: The Power of Daily Beta-Glucans
Incorporating beta-glucans into your daily meals can be a simple yet effective way to lower cholesterol levels and support heart health. While they are naturally available in oats and barley, they are present in low dosages, making it a challenge for people to achieve the required intake of 3/g a day. With Orafti® β-Fit, beta-glucans can be easily and economically included in a variety of food items people generally enjoy regularly such as baked goods and cereal bars.
Manufacturers now have the unique opportunity to explore the growing interest in beta-glucans, promoting barley not just as a grain of the past but as a vital ingredient for enhancing longevity and supporting a healthier, more vibrant life as we age.
[1] FMCG Gurus heart health survey HH030 HH217 │ Nutrition Watch: low/no/reduces glycemic, July 2023 │ Empower women through health and nutrition, October 2023 New Nutrition Business, 10 Key Trends in Food, Nutrition & Health 2024 p 34
[2] FMCG Gurus Digestive Health Surveys 2022
