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Barley coffee is not as innocent as it seems
Barley coffee has been all the rage in recent years. Touted as the perfect alternative to traditional coffee – caffeine-free, with a mild flavour and a healthy image – it is winning over more and more consumers looking for a comforting break without the undesirable effects of caffeine.
But here’s the problem: behind this reassuring image lie little-known contraindications that can turn your wellness drink into a source of health problems.
In this article, you’ll discover :
- The 4 major contraindications to barley coffee (scientifically proven)
- Which should NEVER be consumed
- Safe and effective alternatives
- How to identify if you are concerned
Why it’s important: Ignoring these contraindications can lead to bloating, abdominal pain, nutritional deficiencies and even thyroid complications. It’s best to be informed before it’s too late.
Contraindication n°1: Barley contains gluten (dangerous for coeliacs)
The problem of gluten in barley coffee
Barley is one of the cereals that naturally contain gluten, along with wheat and rye. More specifically, barley contains hordeins, proteins in the prolamin family responsible for immune reactions in people with intolerance.
According to Health Canada, the prolamins present in barley (hordeins) are considered to be of particular concern for people suffering from gluten-related disorders.
Crucial point: unlike traditional coffee, which comes from a fruit (the coffee cherry), barley coffee is made from a cereal. This fundamental difference changes everything for people sensitive to gluten.
Who is affected?
People with coeliac disease: For these individuals, even the tiniest trace of gluten (50 mg, the equivalent of a crust of bread) can trigger an inflammatory reaction that damages the intestinal mucosa. The French Health Insurance confirms that barley should be completely excluded from the diet of coeliacs. Consumption of barley coffee is therefore non-negotiable: it is strictly forbidden.
Non-celiac gluten-sensitive people: Although they do not have the specific antibodies for coeliac disease, these people may experience unpleasant digestive symptoms after consuming barley coffee.
Wheat allergy sufferers: Cross-allergy is possible, as the proteins in barley are similar to those in wheat. La Fourmi reminds you that barley is one of the cereals containing gluten that should be avoided.
Symptoms to look out for
If you drink barley coffee and are sensitive to gluten, here’s what can happen:
Digestive symptoms:
- Severe bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Nausea
Systemic symptoms:
- Chronic fatigue
- Headaches
- Intestinal inflammation
- Malabsorption of nutrients (iron, vitamin D, calcium)
The solution: gluten-free alternatives
If you are gluten intolerant but want an alternative to coffee, here are some safe options:
Chicory: Roasted root, coffee-like flavour, naturally gluten-free
Acorn coffee: Sweet, woody flavour, completely gluten-free
Roasted soy coffee: Coffee-like texture, gluten-free and caffeine-free
Roasted dandelion infusion: Digestive properties, gluten-free
⚠️ Important: Although oats are sometimes presented as gluten-free, they are often contaminated during production. Always opt for certified gluten-free products.
Contraindication no. 2: Digestive problems and excess fibre
Barley: a fibre bomb for sensitive intestines
Barley coffee naturally contains a high amount of fibre, in particular soluble fibre (beta-glucans) and insoluble fibre. While these fibres are beneficial for most people, they can be problematic for certain profiles.
Who should avoid barley coffee for digestive reasons?
People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS):
- Insoluble fibre can aggravate intestinal pain
- Increased bloating and gas
- Increased episodes of diarrhoea
People with relapsing Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis:
- Fibre can irritate an already inflamed intestine
- Risk of aggravation of acute symptoms
People with slow digestion:
- Too much fibre can lead to excessive fermentation
- High gas production (hydrogen, carbon dioxide)
- Feeling of heaviness in the abdomen
Why are barley fibres a problem?
Once in the colon, barley’s soluble fibre is fermented by intestinal bacteria. This fermentation produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that are beneficial to intestinal health in healthy people.
BUT in a person with a sensitive digestive system, this same fermentation generates :
- Excessive gas production
- Painful bloating
- Abdominal distension
- Intestinal cramps
As ABC Clinique Santé explains, soluble fibre feeds intestinal bacteria that ferment and produce gas, which can cause bloating and discomfort in some people.
How should barley coffee be used if you have a sensitive intestine?
If you absolutely must try barley coffee despite digestive sensitivities, here are the precautions to take:
- Start gradually: Half a cup a day for a week, then gradually increase the dose.
- Keep well hydrated: Drink at least 1.5 litres of water a day to help your bowels move more easily.
- Avoid crisis periods: Don’t drink barley coffee during an inflammatory flare-up.
- Test the timing: Try drinking your barley coffee at different times of the day
- Observe your body: Keep a food diary to identify correlations between food consumption and symptoms.
Warning sign: If after 3-4 days of moderate consumption you are still experiencing digestive discomfort (bloating, pain, gas), barley coffee is probably not for you.
Contraindication no. 3: Thyroid disorders and excess iodine
Barley coffee contains iodine: beware of thyroid problems
Here’s a little-known but very real contraindication: barley naturally contains iodine, a mineral essential for the functioning of the thyroid gland.
The problem: While iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), too much can upset the delicate balance of this gland, particularly in people who are already weakened. TheWorld Health Organisation points out that the thyroid uses iodine to produce thyroid hormones, without distinguishing between iodine from different food sources.
Who’s at risk?
People suffering from hypothyroidism:
- Excess iodine can paradoxically aggravate hypothyroidism in certain patients
- Risk of increased goitre (enlarged thyroid)
- Possible reduction in thyroid hormone production
People with hyperthyroidism:
- Iodine can further stimulate an already overactive thyroid gland
- Worsening of symptoms (palpitations, weight loss, nervousness)
- Risk of cardiac complications
People undergoing thyroid treatment:
- Possible interactions with synthetic thyroid hormones (Levothyrox, L-thyroxine)
- Changes in treatment efficacy
- Need to adjust dosages
- According to theOttawa Hospital, iodine can significantly affect thyroid treatments
People with a history of autoimmune thyroid disease:
- Hashimoto’s disease: risk of exacerbation of inflammation
- Graves’ disease: possible worsening of hyperthyroidism
The mechanism: why can iodine be a problem?
The thyroid gland uses iodine as ‘fuel’ to produce thyroid hormones. In a healthy person, the gland naturally adapts to variations in iodine intake.
But in a person with a weak thyroid:
- Reduced ability to adapt
- Excess iodine can temporarily “block” hormone production (Wolff-Chaikoff effect).
- Conversely, in some patients, it can trigger hyperthyroidism (Jod-Basedow phenomenon).
The MSD Manuals indicate that excessive consumption of iodine can cause the thyroid gland to become hyperactive or hypoactive, particularly in people with a history of thyroid problems.
How much iodine is in barley coffee?
Although precise figures vary depending on the variety of barley and how it is grown, barley generally contains between 10 and 30 microgrammes of iodine per 100 grammes of dry grain.
For reference:
- Recommended daily allowance: 150 micrograms for an adult
- Safety limit: 600 micrograms per day according toANSES (French National Health and Safety Agency)
Moderate consumption of barley coffee (1-2 cups per day) should not pose a problem for a person in good thyroid health. However, in a person with thyroid problems, even this moderate intake can add to other dietary sources of iodine (iodised salt, fish, seaweed) and create an imbalance.
What should you do if you have thyroid problems?
Before drinking barley coffee regularly:
- Consult your endocrinologist or GP
- Have a full thyroid check-up (TSH, T3, T4)
- Assess your overall iodine intake (diet + supplements)
- Test gradually (1 cup every 2-3 days) while monitoring your symptoms.
Warning signs requiring immediate arrest:
- Heart palpitations
- Unusually intense fatigue
- Rapid weight gain or loss
- Increased nervousness or irritability
- Sensation of swelling in the neck area
- Sleep disorders
Contraindication no. 4: Possible drug interactions
Can barley coffee interfere with your medication?
Although less well documented than the other contraindications, the potential for barley coffee to interact with certain medications should not be overlooked. The substances naturally present in barley can alter the absorption or effectiveness of certain treatments.
Medicines potentially concerned
Thyroid medications:
- Levothyroxine (Levothyrox, L-Thyrox, Euthyrox)
- Liothyronine
- Risk: The iodine contained in barley can alter thyroid hormone requirements.
- Recommendation: Take the medication and barley coffee at least 2-3 hours apart.
Antidiabetic drugs:
- Metformin, insulin, sulfonylureas
- Risk: The fibre in barley can slow down the absorption of carbohydrates and alter blood sugar levels.
- Recommendation: Increased monitoring of blood glucose levels, possible adjustment of doses (under medical supervision).
Anti-cholesterol drugs:
- Statins (atorvastatin, simvastatin)
- Risk: beta-glucans in barley also have a cholesterol-lowering effect, risk of cumulative effect
- Recommendation: Monitoring of cholesterol levels, possible adjustment of doses
Anticoagulants:
- Warfarin (Coumadin)
- Risk: Although low, a change in diet rich in fibre may influence the effectiveness of treatment
- Recommendation: INR (International Normalized Ratio) monitoring
Iron supplements:
- Risk: Barley fibre can reduce the absorption of non-haem iron
- Recommendation: Take the iron supplement at least 2 hours after barley coffee.
Precautionary principle
If you are taking chronic medication, here are the basic rules:
- Tell your doctor: always mention your consumption of barley coffee when you go to the doctor.
- Space your doses: leave at least 2 hours between taking your medication and drinking barley coffee.
- Monitor the effects: Note any changes in the effectiveness of your treatment or the appearance of new symptoms.
- Be gradual: Don’t introduce barley coffee abruptly into your routine if you’re on medication.
Golden rule: When in doubt, always ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice. One question too many is better than an avoidable side effect.
Safe alternatives to barley coffee
Do any of the above contraindications apply to you? No need to panic. There are plenty of alternatives to barley coffee that may be just right for you.
Alternative 1: Chicory
Advantages:
- Naturally gluten-free (confirmed by Extenso – Ordre professionnel des diététistes du Québec)
- Caffeine-free
- Roasted, coffee-like taste
- Rich in inulin (a mild prebiotic)
- Promotes digestion
Disadvantages:
- Risk of allergies for some people
- Can cause bloating if consumed in excess
Who it’s for: people with gluten intolerance, caffeine sensitivity, people looking for a prebiotic effect
Alternative 2: Quality decaffeinated coffee
Advantages:
- Authentic taste of coffee
- Gluten-free
- Minimum caffeine content (1-3%)
- Wide choice of roasts and origins
Disadvantages:
- Still contains a trace of caffeine
- May be irritating to the stomach in some people
Who is it for: People with no major digestive problems who want to cut down on caffeine without radically changing their habits.
Alternative 3: Roasted herbal infusions
Examples:
- Roasted dandelion root
- Roasted oak acorns
- Roasted lupins (beware of allergies to legumes)
Advantages:
- Gluten-free (except lupins for allergy sufferers)
- Caffeine-free
- Digestive and detoxifying properties
- Original flavours
Disadvantages:
- Taste can be confusing at first
- Sometimes limited availability
Who’s it for: People looking for an original health drink, fans of medicinal plants, etc.
Alternative 4: Rooibos (South African red tea)
Advantages:
- Naturally caffeine-free
- Gluten-free
- Rich in antioxidants
- Mild, slightly sweet taste
- Can be drunk with milk
Disadvantages:
- Very different taste from coffee
- Not suitable for those looking for a roasted flavour
Who it’s for: People who want a sweet, comforting drink as an alternative to traditional tea.
Alternative 5: Spelt coffee (with care)
Advantages:
- Barley coffee-like flavour
- Often better digested than barley
Disadvantages:
- ⚠️ Contains gluten (avoid for coeliacs)
- Same thyroid precautions as barley
Who it’s for: Non-gluten intolerant people looking for an alternative to barley with a similar taste.
How do you choose the right alternative for you?
Step 1: Identify your main contraindication (gluten, digestion, thyroid, interactions)
Step 2: Eliminate alternatives that present the same risk
Step 3: Gradually test the remaining options (a new alternative every 3-4 days)
Step 4: Observe your reactions (digestive, energy, thyroid)
Step 5: Choose the one that suits you best and vary your pleasures
FAQ : Your questions about barley coffee contraindications
Is barley coffee really safe for everyone?
No, contrary to what you might think, barley coffee has a number of important contraindications: gluten intolerance, digestive problems, thyroid problems and drug interactions. It is not suitable for everyone.
Can barley coffee be consumed during pregnancy?
Although barley coffee is caffeine-free (which is an advantage for pregnant women), caution is advised due to its iodine content. Iodine requirements increase during pregnancy, but too much can also be problematic. Consult your midwife or gynaecologist before consuming barley on a regular basis.
Is organic barley coffee safer?
Organic barley coffee reduces exposure to pesticides and herbicides, which is positive. However, it still contains gluten, fibre and iodine. The organic label does not therefore change any of the main contraindications.
How many cups of barley coffee can you drink a day?
For a person with no contraindications, 2-3 cups a day are generally well tolerated. However, if you have digestive sensitivities or thyroid problems, limit yourself to 1 cup a day, or even less, and monitor your reactions.
Can barley coffee cause nutritional deficiencies?
In people with coeliac disease who continue to eat gluten, yes. The intestinal inflammation caused by gluten prevents the correct absorption of nutrients (iron, calcium, vitamin D, B vitamins). This can lead to serious deficiencies over the long term.
Are there any people who should absolutely avoid barley coffee?
Yes, three profiles must avoid it:
- People with coeliac disease (gluten intolerance)
- People experiencing an inflammatory flare-up of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- People with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism
Can barley coffee cause allergies?
Yes, although rare, an allergy to barley proteins (hordeins) is possible. Symptoms may include itching, hives, swelling of the face or throat and breathing difficulties. In the event of an allergic reaction, stop eating immediately and consult a doctor.
Can barley coffee be given to children?
The absence of caffeine makes barley coffee theoretically suitable for children. However, first check that they are not gluten intolerant and introduce it gradually to observe any digestive reactions. Half a cup diluted is a good first step.
Does barley coffee have the same effect on the stomach as coffee?
No, barley coffee is generally gentler on the stomach because it contains no caffeine (which stimulates the production of gastric acid). However, its high fibre content can cause a number of digestive problems: bloating, gas and a feeling of heaviness.
Should I stop drinking barley coffee gradually if I discover an intolerance?
Unlike traditional coffee (which can cause caffeine withdrawal symptoms), you can stop drinking barley coffee overnight without any side effects. However, if you experience any unpleasant symptoms, they are probably due to the intolerance itself and should improve rapidly after stopping.
Conclusion: Listen to your body first
Barley coffee is not a miracle drink, nor is it completely risk-free. As we have seen, it has real, documented contraindications:
- Gluten intolerance: Danger for coeliacs and gluten-sensitive people
- Digestive disorders: Bloating and discomfort in sensitive intestines
- Thyroid problems: Risk of hormonal imbalance due to iodine
- Drug interactions: Caution if you are taking any medication
The take-home message: Barley coffee can be an excellent alternative to traditional coffee for many people, but not for everyone. Before adopting it as your daily drink, make sure you are not affected by any of these contraindications.
Your 3-step action plan
Stage 1: Self-assessment
- Are you gluten intolerant?
- Do you suffer from digestive disorders (IBS, Crohn’s, colitis)?
- Do you have thyroid problems?
- Do you take medication regularly?
Stage 2: Progressive test (if no major contraindications)
- Start with half a cup every 2-3 days
- Observe your reactions for 2 weeks
- Note any unusual symptoms
Stage 3: Informed decision
- If all goes well: enjoy your barley coffee in moderation (1-2 cups/day)
- If symptoms are mild: try one of the suggested alternatives
- If severe symptoms: stop and consult a healthcare professional
Remember: your well-being comes before dietary trends. If barley coffee isn’t for you, there are many alternatives that are just as pleasant and healthy.
Do any of these contraindications apply to you? Don’t hesitate to consult a nutritionist or doctor for personalised advice tailored to your situation.
