Bamboo Shoots: Exotic Taste of Northeastern Cuisine and its Amazing Health Benefits

Well, many of you may have already tasted it, but those who have no clue about what is Bamboo Shoots must definitely read this article. Some people might wonder, how can people eat something made of bamboo! But let me tell you, one should try it at least once because it's not only incredibly tasty but also comes with many health benefits. The various research report is the evidence which clearly shows that bamboo shoots have a number of medicinal benefits, right from preventing cancer to weight loss. Not only the smell but it will give you the exotic taste of international dishes like Thai Curries.

What is Bamboo Shoot? 

Bamboo shoots or bamboo sprouts are the edible shoots (new bamboo clums that come out of the ground) of many bamboo species including Bambusa Vulgauris and Phyllostachys edulis. They are used as vegetables in numerous Asian dishes and broths. They are sold in various processed shapes, and are available in fresh, dried, and canned versions. 

Raw bamboo shoots contain cyanogenic glycosides, natural toxins also contained in cassava. One important thing to be noted that the toxins must be destroyed by thorough cooking and for this reason fresh bamboo shoots are often boiled before being used in other ways. The toxins are also destroyed in the canning process. (As per Wiki) 

Here are 7 Nutritional Benefits of Bamboo Shoots if you include it in your diet- 

1. Protect your heart against diseases –

As it is high in phytonutrients, bamboo shoots are a great way to get phenolic acids into your body. It contains antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory qualities that reduce the risk of numerous long-term illness like heart diseases. 

2. It helps in losing weight-

It is very low in calories. Bamboo shoots are considered weight-loss friendly. One cup of bamboo shoots contains about 13 calories and half a gram of fat. This fat consists of both saturated and unsaturated fat. Bamboo shoots are also high in healthy fibre, which aids in digestion and enhances satiety. 

3.Helps in treating stomach disorders: 

It is a good natural pain killer. Bamboo shoots, as well as bamboo leaves, are useful in treating stomach disorders. They also help in relieving intestinal worms and pains.

4. Natural healer of ulcers:

Ulcers are very painful which gives you so much discomfort and pain. Bamboo shoots, when crushed and consumed in the form of juice, can easily deal with ulcers. 

 5. A Natural Wound cleanser:  

It is a natural healer of wound and cuts. Bamboo shoots are also used for cleaning wounds and sores and known to immediately work on physical cuts and injuries. 

 6. Possible cure for poisoning:  

Bamboo shoot extracts contain anti-venomous qualities which are beneficial in treating snake and scorpion bites, according to Ayurvedic science. 

 7. Research claims it fights cancer:  

Scientific studies on bamboos revealed that the leaves of the bamboos contain amylase as well as chlorophyll which are helpful in managing mutations as well as cancer. 

The disadvantage- 

1. Some people complain that eating more bamboo shoots can lead to hair fall. But it differs from person to person as it has many medicinal qualities which may be reacted differently according to health conditions.