One of the most popular native food item in the North-East region of India is the bamboo shoots. Very much like the other fermented foods found in the aforementioned region, this one also is a major delicacy among most of the native North-East Indian and other Asian countries including China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia and Nepal.
What Are Bamboo Shoots?
Most parts of the world may not be aware of bamboo shoots. However, it is nothing but the sprouts which spring out beside the bamboo plant. These sprouts or shoots are edible and they belong to the Bambusoideae subfamily of grass.
Health Benefits of Eating Bamboo Shoots
Evidently, the evidence in old Chinese literature dating back to the Tang dynasty (618 AD- 907 AD), suggests the benefits of eating bamboo shoots. It is available in either fresh or canned varieties. However, before cooking fresh bamboo shoots, it is highly recommended to boil them partially or soak them in water overnight, as some species may contain cyanide, which can be eliminated by either of these processes.
Helps in Losing Weight
One of the most liked properties of Bamboo shoots is that it helps in losing weight. In terms of the amount of calories, carbohydrates and sugars contained in bamboo shoots, their presence is almost negligible.
Heart Health
Researchers say that phytosterols and phytonutrients found in bamboo shoots are ideal for dissolving harmful LDL cholesterol in the body. This eases cholesterol out of arteries for the smooth supply and movement of blood throughout the body.
Fights Cancer
Research conducted on bamboo shoots have indicated that leaves of bamboo shoots consist of phytosterols such as flavone, amylase and chlorophyll. Out of these, chlorophyll showed properties of controlling mutations and cancer.
Strengthens the Immune System
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.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
The amount of dietary fiber in bamboo shoots is high. Consuming sufficient amounts of dietary fiber is essential for easy digestion and healthy bowel movements. Including bamboo shoots in your meals can be a very good idea for losing weight as well.
Anti-Inflammatory
One of the researches show that bamboo shoots possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-killing) properties. It helps in the healing of ulcers as well. Juice from bamboo shoots can also be used as a medicine for external wounds and ulcers.
Cure for Poisoning
According to Ayurvedic medicine, the ancient Indian science of medicine and lifestyle, it is believed that bamboo extracts contain anti-venomous properties. They are useful in cases of both snake and scorpion bites.
Uterotonic Properties
It is also widely believed that bamboo shoots can cause uterine contractions. It is used as a medicinal supplement during the last month of pregnancy when the delivery date is still pending.
Stomach Disorders
Bamboo shoots are useful in treating stomach disorders. Apart from bamboo shoots, bamboo leaves are also suggested as a remedy for intestinal worms and stomach disorders as well.
Lowers Blood Pressure
It contain high amounts of potassium. Potassium is highly beneficial as an electrolyte and is also very good for lowering and maintaining blood pressure.
Nutritional Values
A 100 gram serving of bamboo shoots contains only 20 calories. Also, the carbohydrates found in bamboo shoots do not amount to more than 3-4 grams per 100 gram serving. The amount of sugar found in it is about 2.5 grams per 100 gram serving, less than 0.49 grams of fat, and 2.5 grams of protein. The dietary fiber contained in bamboo shoots make up 6-8 grams out of a 100 gram serving.
