The 15 Health Benefits of Bamboo Shoots
Bamboo sprout benefits are diverse, as it has a large amount of essential nutrients for the general health of the body. Health Benefits of Bamboo Shoots include healthy weight loss , controlling bad cholesterol, strengthening the immune system, quenching possible cancer properties, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is heart-friendly, contains protein, a sufficient supply of vitamins and minerals and a small amount of fat. It also contains a significant amount of dietary fiber.
Some of the bamboo species whose shoots are harvested include Phyllostachys edulis, winter shoots, ‘hairy’ shoots, Phyllostachys bambusoides, Dendrocalamus latiflorus, Bambusa vulgaris, Bambusa oldhamii and Bambusa odashimae. Bamboo is used for various other purposes ranging from construction, support for buildings, simple housing, bamboo furniture, musical instruments such as flutes, dizi, xiao, shakuhachi, and in paper production. Thus, bamboo is one of the most used and versatile plants on the planet.
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Apart from these many uses, bamboo shoots are also consumed in many Asian countries such as China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Nepal and India. Evidence can be found in old Chinese literature, dating back to the Tang dynasty (618 AD-907 AD), about the benefits of eating bamboo shoots . This was perhaps the first written record of bamboo shoots in human history. Another important scripture dating back to the Ming dynasty (1368 CE to 1644 CE) also mentioned the medicinal benefits of bamboo shoots . There are many species of bamboo that sprout shoots, but only a handful of them are actually cultivated and consumed.
Bamboo shoots are available in fresh or canned varieties. They, fresh, can last up to two weeks when refrigerated properly and away from sunlight or else the sprouts will develop a bitter taste. On the other hand, canned versions can be stored for a long time. It is recommended to cook them as quickly as possible. However, before cooking fresh bamboo shoots , it is highly recommended to partially boil them or soak them in water overnight, as some species may contain cyanide, which can be eliminated by any of these processes.
According to a study conducted by Nirmala Chongtham, Madho Singh Bhisht and Sheena Haorongbam from the University of Punjab in Chandigarh, India, bamboo shoots are rich in various nutrients.
- Low calorie: A 100 gram serving of bamboo shoots contains only 20 calories. Also, the carbohydrates found in bamboo shoots represent no more than 3-4 grams per 100 grams serving.
- Low Sugar: The amount of sugar found in bamboo shoots is about 2.5 grams per 100 grams serving. This is less than the amount of sugar found in many fruits and vegetables .
- Insignificant amount of fat: A 100-gram serving of bamboo shoots contains less than 0.49 grams of fat. This fat is made up of both saturated and unsaturated fats. Unsaturated fats are needed by the body as they can control the spread of bad LDL cholesterol throughout the body.
- Protein Source: A 100 gram serving of bamboo shoots would have around 2 to 2.5 grams of protein. The proteins found in bamboo consists of seventeen essential amino acids and two semi-essential amino acids.
- Vitamins and Minerals in Bamboo Shoots: Bamboo shoots contain vitamins such as Vitamin A , Vitamin B6 , Vitamin E , Thiamine , Riboflavin , Niacin , Folic Acid and Pantothenic Acid. Minerals found in bamboo shoots include Calcium , Magnesium , Phosphorus , Potassium , Sodium , Zinc , Copper , Manganese , Selenium and Iron .
- High in Dietary Fiber: Bamboo shoots are rich in dietary fiber. The amount of dietary fiber contained make up 6-8 grams of a 100 gram serving.
- Appetizing Effects: Bamboo Shoots contain high cellulosic material that stimulates appetite. The flavor and texture of bamboo shoots also make them a good appetizer.
Bamboo shoots are an exotic food that is consumed in many countries in Asia and is now slowly growing in demand in Western countries. Bamboo shoots are known for their many health benefits, including those explained in greater detail below. Then check out, The 15 Health Benefits of Bamboo Shoots.
Bamboo Shoot Weight Loss Benefits: Bamboo shoots are weight loss friends. When we look at the amount of calories, carbohydrates and sugars contained in bamboo shoots , it is shocking to discover that their presence is almost negligible. This makes it an ideal food for people who want to lose weight but also want their stomachs full.
Bamboo Shoot Benefits Heart Health: According to studies, the phytosterols and phytonutrients found in bamboo shoots are ideal for dissolvingharmful LDL cholesterol in the body. This eases cholesterol out of the arteries for the regular supply and movement of blood throughout the body.
Bamboo Shoot Benefit For Cholesterol Control: Consumption of bamboo shoots is also helpful in lowering LDL cholesterol levels to stable glucose levels. This is due to the fact that bamboo shoots contain negligible amounts of fat and very low calories. Research conducted at Washington State University showed that consumption of bamboo shoots had favorable effects on cholesterol, lipids and bowel function.
Bamboo Shoot Benefit for Cancer: Studies performed on bamboo shoots have indicated that the leaves consist of phytosterols such as flavone, amylase and chlorophyll. Of these, chlorophyll has shown properties of cancer controlling mutations .
Benefits of Bamboo Shoots for the Immune System: The vitamins and minerals in bamboo shoots are ideal for improving the body’s immune system. The vitamins, minerals and antioxidants present in bamboo shoots are essential for strengthening the body from the inside out.
Bamboo Shoot Provides High Dietary Fiber: The amount of dietary fiber in bamboo shoots is high. Consuming sufficient amounts of dietary fiber is essential for facilitating digestion and healthy bowel movements. Including bamboo shoots in your meals can be a very good idea to lose weight too. With the lack of any physical activity during the night time, having foods that are lower in calories and high in fiber helps you lose weight easily, even while you sleep!
Bamboo Shoot Possesses Anti-Inflammatory Properties: According to research conducted by Muniappan and Sundararaj, bamboo shoots have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This helps in healing ulcers. Bamboo shoot juicecan also be used as a medicine for external wounds and ulcers.
Bamboo Shoot Benefit For Respiratory Ailments: Bamboo shoots have been known to be effective against respiratory disorders. A juice of bamboo shoots can be prepared by boiling the shoots twice. The first boil should be for 5 minutes, followed by a second boil for about 10 minutes. The juice can be taken along with honey for the best effect.
Benefits of Bamboo Shoots to Cure Poisoning: In Ayurvedic medicine, the ancient Indian science of medicine and lifestyle, bamboo extracts are believed to contain anti-venomous properties. They are useful in cases of both snake and scorpion stings.
Bamboo Shoot Possesses Uterotonic Properties: Traditional Chinese medicine believes that bamboo shoots can cause uterine contractions. It is used as a medicinal supplement during the last month of pregnancy. According to research paper presented at the University of Vienna, bamboo is one of the many plants that have been listed among the uterotonic plants.
Bamboo Shoot Benefit For Stomach Disorders: Bamboo shoots are useful in treating stomach disorders. In addition to bamboo shoots, bamboo leaves are also suggested as a remedy for intestinal worms and stomach disorders as well.
Benefit of Bean Sprout for Wound Cleansing: Bamboo shoots are also used for cleansing wounds and ulcers.
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Benefits of Bamboo Shoot for Blood Pressure: Bamboo sprouts contain large amounts of potassium . Potassium is highly beneficial as an electrolyte and is also very good for lowering and maintaining blood pressure . With all these benefits from bamboo shoots , they are highly recommended for a healthy lifestyle.