Bamboo shoots nutrition facts   

      

Crisp and chewy bamboo shoots are freshly erupting edible culms of the bamboo plant. Young, tender shoots are a seasonal delicacy in East Asian regions, particularly in China, Taiwan, Japan and other South-East Asian countries. Several species of bamboo plants employed in the bamboo shoot farming. 

Health Benefits of Bamboo Shoots

Bamboo shoots are an exotic food consumed in many Asian countries, and in the recent years, are also gaining demand in the Western countries as well. Bamboo shoots are known for their various health benefits, including those explained in greater detail below.

Helps in Losing Weight: Bamboo shoots are weight loss-friendly. When we look at a number of calories, carbohydrates, and sugars contained in bamboo shoots, it is surprising to find that their presence is almost negligible. This makes it an ideal food for people who want to lose weight, but also want their stomachs to be full.

Heart Health: According to research studies, 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.

Controls Cholesterol: Consumption of bamboo shoots is also helpful in decreasing LDL levels of cholesterol, with stable glucose levels. This is due to the fact that bamboo shoots contain negligible amounts of fat and very low calories. 
Research conducted by Park and Jhon at Washington State University showed that the consumption of bamboo shoots had favorable effects on cholesterol, lipids and bowel function.

Fights Cancer: Research studies 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: 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 inside out.

High Supply of 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. With a lack of any physical activity during the night time, taking food with fewer calories and high fiber helps lose weight easily, even while you sleep.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: According to research conducted by Muniappan and Sundararaj, 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.

Respiratory Disorders: Bamboo shoots have been known to be effective against respiratory disorders. A decoction of the shoots can be prepared by boiling them twice. The first boil should be for 5 minutes followed by a second boil for about 10 minutes. The decoction can be taken along with honey for the best results.

Possible Cure for Poisoning: In 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: Traditional Chinese medicine believes 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. According to the research paper submitted by Gruber and O’Brien at the University of Vienna, bamboo is one of the many plants listed among uterotonic plants.

Stomach Disorders: Bamboo shoots are useful in treating stomach disorders. Bamboo leaves are also suggested as a remedy for intestinal worms and stomach disorders as well.

Wound Cleaning: Bamboo shoots are also used for cleaning wounds and sores.

Lowers Blood Pressure: Bamboo shoots contain a high amount of potassium. Potassium is highly beneficial as an electrolyte and is also very good for lowering and maintaining blood pressure.

With all of these benefits from bamboo shoots, they are highly recommended for a healthy lifestyle.

A Few Serving Ideas for Bamboo Shoots 

Bamboo shoots can be boiled and then used for making various dishes. Boiled shoots can be served with butter and soya sauce as a vegetable accompaniment.

Bamboo shoots can be added to soups, stews, salads, and gravies.

Pickles made from bamboo shoots are available and can be consumed as a delicious snack