Written By: Shaloo Tiwari | Updated : December 15, 2017 11:04 AM IST
Bamboo shoots are an important part of the Asian cuisine and are now gaining popularity in other countries too. For those who don't know bamboo shoots are basically the sprouts which grow beside the bamboo plant and are softer. Bamboo plant as a whole is a very useful and almost every part of the bamboo plant is put into use. Talking about the health aspect of the bamboo shoot, it is rich in various components like proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and fiber which makes it a very healthy ingredient to consume. Bamboo shoots should be boiled thoroughly before eating . It can simply be eaten after boiling, as a side or can be added to soups, salads, gravies and stews. Bamboo shoots are stored as pickles, which are highly popular. Here are a few health benefits of consuming bamboo shoots that you should know.
Weight Loss
Bamboo shoot is very low in fat, sugars and has almost negligible carbs. Can you believe this, 100 grams of bamboo shoots contains less than 0.49 grams of fat? This makes bamboo shoot an ideal food for people on a weight loss regimen.
Heart health
According to studies, phytonutrients and phytosterols are found in bamboo shoots and they are supposed to be helpful in getting rid of bad cholesterol(LDL) from the body. This, in turn, could help reduce the chances of blocked arteries and better heart health.
Healthy Bowels
Bamboo shoots are rich in dietary fibre and consuming sufficient amounts of dietary fibre is essential. Therefore, including bamboo shoots in your meals can help proper bowel movement and reduce bloating too.
Improved immune system
Bamboo shoots are rich in vitamins and minerals that can help improve body s immune system. Various antioxidants present in bamboo shoots are important for stronger immunity.
Anti-inflammatory properties
According to various research, bamboo shoots possess analgesic or pain-killing properties. Its anti-inflammatory properties are known to even help to heal ulcers. Bamboo shoot juice has been used as a medicine for wounds and ulcers in Chinese medicine.
References:
Chongtham, N., Bisht, M. S., & Haorongbam, S. (2011). Nutritional properties of bamboo shoots: potential and prospects for utilization as a health food. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 10(3), 153-168.
Singhal, P., Bal, L. M., Satya, S., Sudhakar, P., & Naik, S. N. (2013). Bamboo shoots: a novel source of nutrition and medicine. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 53(5), 517-534.
Park, E. J., & Jhon, D. Y. (2009). Effects of bamboo shoot consumption on lipid profiles and bowel function in healthy young women. Nutrition, 25(7), 723-728.
Satya, S., Bal, L. M., Singhal, P., & Naik, S. N. (2010). Bamboo shoot processing: food quality and safety aspect (a review). Trends in Food Science & Technology, 21(4), 181-189.
