Make the most of your morning with a healthy treat that gives your mouth chewy barley, sweet flavor, crunchy nuts and a touch of rich chocolate. This meal satisfies on all levels, and it just feels like a smart choice for the start of your day.

While we love this recipe for many, many reasons we’re going to focus on how it fuels your body to support hair growth and health.

Fuel for hair growth

Barley provides the foundation for this meal and that’s a great thing because it is packed with nutrition that’s been around a long time. Barley is an ancient grain with a vast array of health benefits.

Where your hair is concerned, barley is rich in iron and copper, these minerals increased the production of red blood cells, which improve circulation and keep your hair growing healthy and strong. This means less hair loss concerns.

Copper also helps in the production of melatonin, which can restore your natural hair color. Great news if your hair looks dull and lifeless – it’s a natural way to regain your crowning glory.

Barley is also packed with selenium, a trace mineral and a powerful one. Selenium can help your body fight against heart disease and cancer. It’s needed for metabolic function in your spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and liver. It can also help your skin recover from injuries. 

Where your hair is concerned, selenium boosts hair growth and reduces dandruff. It also helps regulate hormones that prompt hair growth.

Let’s get started so you can experience your new favorite breakfast.

Barley with apricots, hazelnuts, chocolate, and honey

Ingredients:

2 ½ cups of water

1 cup barley

¼ cup dried apricots, chopped

¼ cup dark chocolate, chopped

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup low-fat buttermilk

¼ cup blanched toasted hazelnuts, chopped

¼ cup honey

Directions:

Bring the water and salt to a boil over high heat. Whisk in the grains and let the pot return to a boil. Once it’s boiling with the grains, reduce heat to low. Simmer covered for 1 hour. 

Let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork before serving. 

Top with buttermilk, apricots, hazelnuts, chocolate, and honey.

If you’d like to experiment with the flavor and create your own delicious breakfast, try other toppings. These were chosen specifically because of their hair-friendly nature, but feel free to try something that makes you look forward to breakfast.