Vegetables are an essential part of cooking all over the world and they are available in plenty of varieties. But only a few are able to get into limelight while the rest are still under cover and the best example for this is bamboo shoots. They are a well-known cooking ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine but are consumed only in very few states of India like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Jharkhand, Odisha and Karnataka.
Bamboo shoots have a crisp texture and mild, earthy flavour which is commonly consumed in boiled or canned form. In India, they are mainly enjoyed as stir-fried, curries, pickle, salads and soups. Many chicken and pork dishes also include bamboo shoots in the recipe like amrusu of Nagaland and baanhgajor lagot kukura of Assam. Along with giving us a unique culinary experience, this exotic ingredient also provides various nutrients to our body. According to Healthline, bamboo shoots are rich in fibre, vitamins, copper and many other essential nutrients.
Here are five reasons to include bamboo shoots in your diet:
Heart Health
According to Healthline, bamboo shoots are known to reduce cholesterol levels in the body which is beneficial for your heart health. This is due to the presence of soluble fibre in them. This nutrient absorbs water in the gut which has a positive impact on managing cholesterol levels in the body.
Boosts Immunity
Loaded with various vitamins and minerals, bamboo shoots contribute to boosting immunity. This helps in fighting against various viral and bacterial infections that are common during monsoon and winter. According to Netmeds, the healthy components of bamboo shoots also boost brain function and prevent the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Strong Bones
Bamboo shoots are high in potassium and phosphorus which help in maintaining strong bones. According to Netmeds, one serving of bamboo shoots has twice the amount of potassium as a banana, approximately 13% of daily required levels. Apart from this bamboo shoots also help in building muscles and managing blood pressure.
Improves Digestive System
As mentioned earlier, bamboo shoots are rich in fibre which improves gut health. According to Healthline, the fibre present in them provides fuel to the beneficial bacteria in the gut. It also reduces the risk of several diseases like haemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and colorectal cancer. One cup of bamboo shoots contains approximately 2 grams of fibre.
Weight Loss
Bamboo shoots are low in calories and high in fibre which makes it a perfect addition to your weight loss journey. It keeps you full for a long time without adding any extra kilos. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of this food also detoxify the body which has a positive impact on weight loss.