Malt’s origins can be traced back at the Egyptians in the past, but the full benefit of this healthy, “forgotten ingredient”This has been neglected and underappreciated.
Americans are constantly looking for new nutritional trends, and malt is a powerful reminder that our ancestors sometimes know better.
Malt is fondly remembered as an American cultural cornerstone. It conjures up nostalgic memories of vintage. “malt shops” or a delicious glass of Ovaltine™ malted milk. What is malt exactly?
Basically, malt is sprouted barley. The enzymes of the barley are released when the grain is sprouted. This ancient and natural process releases the whole grain’s nutritional power. Further processing can be done to make liquid sweeteners called Malt Extracts. These are used in drinks (beer and malted shakes), energy drinks, baked goods (breads, cakes, pretzels and breads), snacks (protein bars and yogurts), and many other foods.
Natural Health Benefits of Malt Extract
* Athletic Recovery: Today, malt extract is drawing renewed attention as a naturally-functional ingredient that packs a host of powerful intrinsic health benefits – one reason that, among other uses, athletes are increasingly relying on malt extract-based beverages to replenish and recover.
* Boosts Happiness: Malt extract might actually make you happy! Hordenine is a naturally occurring compound found in plants that can lift spirits. Hordenine has been shown to activate dopamine D2 (the brain’s reward centre), which in turn causes this. “feel-good”This is a very positive result. It can also be used to increase mental focus and energy.
* Sweetener with Substance: Malt extract is not an empty sugar. Malt extract can be used as a sweetener and contains essential amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It is made from whole grains. Additionally, malt extract has an even lower glycemic score than table sugar.
* Supports Digestive Health: Malt extract can be good for your gut. Malt extract is rich in soluble fiber which can improve digestion by optimizing the good bacteria and decreasing the bad bacteria. Research has shown that malt extract can promote the growth of probiotic cultures, which can improve digestive health by supporting good bacteria in the gut. This can reduce the risk of illness and improve your overall health.
* Promotes Heart Health: Malt extract is shown to reduce the risk of heart problems by helping to lower cholesterol. Malt is a heart-healthy mixture that contains fiber, potassium and folate. These nutrients together lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of developing cardiac disease. The dietary fiber in malt helps to lower insulin activity, increase cholesterol absorption and promotes cholesterol breakdown. This promotes lower cholesterol and reduces plaque formation, according to studies.
* Antioxidants Galore: Malt extract packs more than 5 times the antioxidant power of fresh broccoli and nearly 50 percent more than blueberries. It is a rich source for vitamins, minerals, amino acid, vitamins (supports bone health), dietary silicon, micro minerals, and B complex vitamins. It has been proven that antioxidants can improve heart health, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and support anti-aging.
“Malt extract is emerging as a naturally-functional ingredient that consumers should look for in many of their favorite foods and beverages,”Amy Targan, president, Malt Products Corporation
“Today’s health-conscious consumer demands a diet enriched with ingredients that provide optimal flavor and nutritional function to complement their lifestyle.”
Malt Products Corporation is a company that supplies all-natural, non GMO-certified malt extracts to many leading bakers, confectioners, beverage, snack food and cereal producers across the nation.
