Bamboo mainly grows in East and South East Asia, and has been used throughout history as construction material, for scaffolding, ornamental blinds and many other things around the home. It’s one of the world’s fastest growing plants and can grow up to one metre per day! It has of course, also been cooked and eaten as food, as bamboo shoots more specifically. These are actively used for cooking in Asian countries as well as for medicinal purposes. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) bamboo is mainly associated with supporting lung and gallbladder health and has cooling properties. Curious cuisine? Maybe, so read on for more with our Top 5 Health Benefits of Bamboo Shoots!
1. Rich in Nutrients
Bamboo shoots are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, phytochemicals, protein, fibre, fatty acids, and vitamins (mainly) B6 and C.
2. Supports Heart Health
Thanks to its phytonutrients and phytosterols these shoots can help in the decrease of LDL cholesterol while its fibre content helps to prevent arteriosclerosis.
3. Supports Weight Loss
It’s useful to consume bamboo shoots in your diet if you aim to lose weight since they are low in calories and high in fibre, therefore making you feel satiated for long periods.
4. Helps Protect Against Degenerative Disease
This is due to the phenolic concentration found in bamboo shoots which has been shown to have anti-aging, antioxidant and anti-fatigue properties.
5. Helps Fight Colds & Flu
Thanks to its rich antioxidant and vitamin C content, bamboo shoots are your ally in fighting off seasonal symptoms, decreasing symptoms when you get them, and helping prevent them altogether.
Bamboo shoots have a crisp and tender texture and can be used in preparing many Asian dishes, soups, stir-fries or braised. There are a host of recipes easily found online, so why not try bamboo and add an oriental twist to your palate? Eat a lot of bamboo, tell us what effect it’s had on your health below and your recipes are welcome! Join in the conversation on Facebook and follow us on Twitter & Instagram. (Take a look at these other health food articles to help you Keep YOUR Fit ON and no pandas, promise!)
