Young bamboo shoots are rich in nutrients that provide amazing health benefits including anti-cancer and anti-oxidant properties. Besides the amazing health benefits it provides to adults, it is also highly nutritious for kids. It has recently also been coined as a ‘new super food’ for both children and adults!

Bamboo shoots are an exotic food that is consumed in many Asian countries. Recently, it is gaining high popularity in western countries as well. Well, bamboo shoots are known for the various associated health benefits, including the ones explained ahead in detail. Bamboo shoots are perhaps more valuable for what they don’t add to your meals than what they do. Although not bursting with nutrients, this Asian vegetable adds bulk and texture to foods without adding much calories and fat. You can avail readily available canned shoots in the market and grocery stores.

About Bamboo Shoots

Fresh bamboo shoots are a seasonal delicacy. In countries like the USA, fresh shoots, specifically frozen are usually imported from Thailand, China, and Taiwan. However, canned or vacuum packed bamboo shoots can be availed from the supermarkets all through the year.

Conversely, if you are buying fresh shoots, it’s better to go for the one harvested lately. Choose heavy and firm sprouts with a wide base and intact leaves. Also, avoid soft, dry roots. The best way to make a choice is to take a close look at the base of the bamboo shoot, whether or not it is turning to green hue. If you notice any green discoloration, it indicates that the root is over-matured and has been exposed to sunlight for a long time. Also, it can be bitter in taste.

Health Benefits of Bamboo Shoot

The creamy color, subtle, corn like flavor of bamboo shoot is popular in various Asian Countries. Crunchy bamboo shoots are one of the most favorite ingredients in many Asian countries. The basic reason is the rich fiber content and the variety of vitamins and minerals present in bamboo shoot.

Some of the most important health benefits provided by bamboo shoot are:

Weight Loss : Bamboo shoots are highly effective for those looking to lose weight. Looking at the amount of calories, carbohydrates, and sugars present in bamboo shoots, it is shocking to find that the percentage is almost negligible. This makes it a perfect food for kids dealing with childhood obesity.

Boosts Immune System : Bamboo shoots are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. These vitamins and minerals along with the antioxidants present are essential to give a boost to your child’s immune system. This amazing food strengthens the body from inside out.

Low Fat content : If your child is dealing with childhood obesity, there is no better choice than bamboo shoots. A 100 gram serving of bamboo shoots contains less than 0.49 grams of fat. This fat comprises of both saturated and unsaturated fats. The body needs unsaturated fats to control the spread of bad LDL cholesterol throughout the body.

Dietary Fiber : The high amount of dietary fiber present in bamboo shoots is quite high. If you give your child sufficient amount of dietary fiber, it would help improve digestion while providing healthy bowel movements. For parents concerned about children’s obesity, bamboo shoots are a good choice to help your child lose excess weight. Furthermore, it is a good choice to serve bamboo shoots in dinner for the low amount of calories and high fiber present in this amazing food. It aids easy weight loss, even when asleep. 

Anti-inflammatory Properties : If your child suffers from any chronic pain or ulcers, bamboo shoots are the perfect choice to rescue the problem. Bamboo shoots contain analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that also help in healing of ulcers. The juice extracted from bamboo shoots can be effectively used as a medicine for external wounds and ulcers.

Treats Respiratory Disorders : Childhood asthma or other respiratory disorders are common health issues among many children. Well, this is the perfect time to turn to bamboo shoots. Give your child a decoction prepared by boiling the shoots twice. The first boil should be for 5 minutes, followed by another boil for about 10 minutes. Give this decoction to your child with honey for desired results.

Rich Protein Source : It is quite surprising that a 100 gram serving of bamboo shoots contains as much as 2-2.5 grams of protein. The proteins present in bamboo consist of seventeen essential amino acids and two semi-essential amino acids.

A Great Appetizer : The high amount of cellulosic material present in bamboo shoots stimulates the appetite. The texture and taste of the bamboo shoots also make it a great appetizer.

Vitamins and minerals : Bamboo shoots are loaded with vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin E, B vitamins (including vitamin B3 and B6), riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, and folate. Furthermore, it also contains essential minerals like magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, sodium, zinc, potassium, copper, selenium, manganese, and iron. All these vitamins and minerals are important for healthy growth and development of your child.

Low Sugar Content : A 100 gram serving of bamboo shoots contains only 2.5 grams of sugar. This is much less than the amount of sugar contained by various fruits and vegetables. 

Wound Cleaning : Bamboo shoots are quite effective to clean wounds and sores. Since the shoots have no side effects whatsoever, it may be used without apprehensions even on kids!

Possible cure for Poisoning : Bamboo shoot has been used in Ayurvedic medicine, the ancient science of Indian medicine and lifestyle. It is believed that bamboo extracts are packed with anti-venomous properties. For this reason they are highly useful in case of scorpion and snake bite.

Treats Stomach Disorders : The all healthy bamboo shoots are helpful for stomach disorders. In addition to bamboo shoots, bamboo leaves are also suggested as a remedy for stomach disorders and intestinal worms.

Bamboo Shoot Nutrition Facts

As discussed above, bamboo shoot provides amazing health benefits not only for adults but for children as well. Below is the detailed analysis of nutritional facts of bamboo shoot.