Bamboo Shoots – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

Wednesday, July 12, 2017 by Earl Garcia

Bamboo shoots are the edible little sprouts that grow adjacent to bamboo plants. Bamboo shoots are characterized by their crisp and chewy texture. The superfood is a seasonal delicacy especially in East Asian countries such as China, Taiwan, and Japan as well as other Southeast Asian countries.

List of known nutrients

Bamboo shoots are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that bolster the body’s overall health. An article on Nutrition and You lists all the important nutrients found in bamboo shoots.

Beta-Carotene
Calcium
Copper
Folates
Iron
Lutein
Magnesium
Manganese
Niacin
Pantothenic Acid
Phosphorus
Potassium
Pyridoxine
Riboflavin
Selenium
Sodium
Thiamin
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Vitamin K
Zeaxanthin
Zinc

Medicinal uses for bamboo shoots

Bamboo shoots are best known for their beneficial effects on the heart and the circulatory system. The phytosterols and phytonutrients found in bamboo shoots are found to dissolve bad cholesterol, especially in the arteries, and eliminate them from the body. The superfood’s negligible fat and calorie levels also contribute to this effect. On the other hand, the high potassium content in bamboo shoots helps lower blood pressure rates. On the other hand, the plant’s high iron content is known promote red blood cell production to ward off anemia.

Bamboo shoots are also notably high in antioxidants that combat free radicals and fend off oxidative stress. Additionally, the phytonutrients in bamboo shoots — such as flavone, amylase, and chlorophyll are known to contain potential anti-cancer properties. Chlorophyll in particular is found to inhibit mutations. On the other hand, the high vitamin and mineral content in bamboo shoots are touted to bolster the body’s immune system and stave off infections. Additionally, the superfood’s anti-inflammatory properties are known to relieve respiratory illnesses.

In addition, bamboo shoots are notably effective in promoting a healthy digestive system. The superfood is notably high in dietary fiber that eases bowel movement and relieves digestive issues such as constipation. Likewise, the plant is an excellent source of manganese the high fiber content in bamboo shoots are touted to delay the body’s sugar absorption. This in turn ensures a steady blood sugar level and prevents the onset of diabetes. The dietary fiber in bamboo shoots also facilitate weight loss. Aside from these, bamboo shoots are also known to treat stomach ulcers.

Moreover, bamboo shoots are notable effective in maintaining a healthy urinary system. The anti-inflammatory and and antioxidant properties in bamboo shoots are found to address urinary tract infections. The same effects are observed to speed up wound healing and promote skin health. Bamboo shoots are also rich in calcium that fortifies the bones and reduces the odds of developing osteoporosis. Furthermore, bamboo shoots contain uterotonic properties that trigger uterine contractions. This effect is especially beneficial for pregnant women who experience late delivery.

Body systems supported by bamboo shoots

Bamboo shoots are particularly beneficial to the heart and the circulatory system. Likewise, the superfood benefits the digestive, immune, and skeletal systems. In addition, bamboo shoots are found to support both the respiratory and female reproductive systems.

Ways to use bamboo shoots

Bamboo shoots are considered delicacy in many Asian cultures, and is primarily used as an extender to stir fries, soups and other dishes. Bamboo shoots are also used in a variety of vegetable and meat dishes. An article on BBC.co.uk has curated interesting bamboo shoot recipes across the web.