Health Benefits of Bamboo Shoots

Bamboo shoots are the edible part of the bamboo plant. Found predominantly in Southeast Asia, bamboo shoots are known to have a rich content of vitamins and minerals that are healthy for us. These contents include “high proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates, many important minerals, and vitamins,” [1]. This makes bamboo shoots a great snack, and also a great addition to any meal. Some benefits of eating bamboo shoots include “healthy weight loss, control of bad cholesterol, strengthening of the immune system, possible cancer-fighting properties, and anti-inflammatory properties,” [2].

Some contents of bamboo shoots have been listed above, but how do these individual contents help the human body? Below is a list of those contents, and their individual properties:

1. Amino acids - There are 8 amino acids that are essential for the human body. Amino acids can be found within bamboo shoots, and they are used to help make proteins that will help the body grow and repair itself.

2. Proteins - As stated above, protein can help the body to build and repair tissue. Proteins also help the body maintain homeostasis, and coordinate body functions.

3. Carbohydrates - The body’s main source of energy derives from carbohydrates, which help to fuel your essential organs.

4. Minerals - Minerals such as “potassium, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and iron” can be found in bamboo shoots [1]. These minerals help the body stay healthy and keep your essential organs working properly.

5. Vitamins - Vitamins can help the body resist infection and stay healthy. Different vitamins have different functions, and bamboo shoots provide a healthy dose of various vitamins.

Bamboo shoots can be eaten fresh or fermented, but it is always recommended to eat them fresh in order to get the full nutritional value. To eat fresh bamboo shoots, the outer layer is peeled off, while the inner portion is cleaned with water. Fermented shoots are usually bought, but they are usually fermented for “6-8 months” before consumption [1].

It is always recommended to talk to your doctor before trying new foods in case of unknown allergies or possible negative dietary consequences. Otherwise, bamboo shoots are a great source of healthy vitamins and minerals that can boost your body.

References:

1. Nongdam, P., & Tikendra, L. (2014, July 20). The nutritional facts of bamboo shoots and their usage as important traditional foods of Northeast India. International Scholarly Research Notices. Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn/2014/679073/

2. Maroma, D. (2015) Utilization of Bamboo Shoots (Bambusa vulgaris) in Chips Production. Open Access Library Journal, 2, 1-6. doi: 10.4236/oalib.1101523.

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Contributors:

Author: Kayjah Taylor

Editors: Lauryn Agron and Liam Lynch

Health scientist: Naiya Upadhyay

@werise4wellness