Did you know that bamboo sprouts are prominent spices used in South Asian cuisines? Though bamboo sprouts are still common, bamboo rice is something rare; however, it is gaining popularity in contemporary times. Bamboo Rice, which tribally goes by the name of Moongil Arisi or Mulayari, is the seed of a dying or decaying bamboo shoot. Therefore, bamboo rice takes birth when the bamboo shoot ends its life span. There are plenty of bamboo rice health benefits, but the rice variant is not commonly found because it takes years for the plant to flower and offshoot these rice grains. However, despite its rare availability, it is a vital and major source of income for tribal communities living in the forests. Let us now explore more about bamboo rice grown by tribals.
Nutrition Profile of Bamboo Rice
Some experts evaluate that bamboo rice may contain a higher nutritional value than other rice varieties. That is why bamboo rice is the staple food for tribals and not regular wheat and rice. Indeed, bamboo rice is different from other rice grains but tastes somewhat similar to wheat. Bamboo rice is moist, chewy, and moist when cooked and is surprisingly gluten-free! With these advantages in mind, analyze the below-given nutrient content of bamboo rice.
- Phosphorus- 18 mg
- Iron- 9.2 mg
- Carotene- 12 mg
- Carbohydrates- 34 grams
- Calcium- 5 mg
- Riboflavin- 36.3 mg
- Calories- 160 (per cup)
- Vitamin B- 0.1 mg
Medicinal Value of Bamboo Rice
After looking at the nutritional value, one can have a fair idea of the medicinal properties of bamboo rice. Of course, the most prominent medicinal value of bamboo rice is its ability to regulate cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Not only this, Ayurveda even commits that bamboo rice can treat Kapha, Pitta, and other doshas of the body. Therefore, even Ayurveda confirms the ability of bamboo rice to treat vitamin deficiencies and weakness among pregnant ladies.
Health Benefits of Tribally Grown Bamboo Rice
Studies suggest that bamboo rice is capable of fighting against free radicals. In addition, the phenolic compounds present in bamboo rice make its antioxidant properties evident. Therefore, bamboo rice’s antibiotic, anti-viral, and antioxidant properties make it desirable to improve health. Let us now look at the key health benefits of bamboo rice-
1. Bamboo rice may keep a check on cholesterol levels-
Bamboo rice contains plant sterol, a compound present in the human body’s cholesterol as well. Along with this, it also contains other phytosterols that may prohibit the absorption of LDL or bad cholesterol. Also, after consuming bamboo rice, people generally feel full, which further cuts their carb and calorie intake and contributes to controlling cholesterol levels.
2. Bamboo rice may manage blood pressure-
Mostly, unhealthy cholesterol levels are the leading cause of the spike in blood pressure. Other than this, hormonal disabilities can also affect blood pressure. However, the powerful antioxidant in green tea can fight against endocrine disorders. Thus, the exact function of bamboo rice nutrition may prevent the thickening of arteries and help manage healthy blood pressure levels.
3. Bamboo rice may regulate blood sugar levels-
Bamboo rice also contains linoleic acid, another potent antioxidant that enriches the health benefits of this tribal food. This makes bamboo rice a solid food that can help with women’s complex polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS. This disease is an ovulatory disorder that can make a woman prone to diabetes and lead to glucose or sugar sensitivity. Thus bamboo rice may prevent the occurrence of unhealthy sugar levels and prevent PCOS in women.
4. Bamboo rice is rich in vitamins-
Bamboo rice is filled with vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) and also contains other B groups of vitamins. Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in the formation and maintenance of red blood cells. Other than this, it also has a part in the nervous system’s functionality and cognitive development. Because of this vital role, the deficiency of vitamin B6 may cause anemia, weakness, and mental disabilities. Therefore the health benefits of bamboo rice can guard against these health problems.
5. Bamboo rice can improve bone health-
Bamboo rice contains inflammation-reducing properties. Therefore it may effectively deal with conditions relating to joints and bones like rheumatoid arthritis. These health concerns are associated with chronic pain, swelling, and discomfort. In addition, bamboo rice has flavonoids, polysaccharides, and alkaloids that make it beneficial to improve bone health and calm the inflammation that causes these symptoms, thereby treating such diseases.
6. Bamboo rice contains decent protein content-
The building blocks of protein, i.e., amino acids, are found in good quantities in bamboo rice. Therefore, the protein-rich nature of bamboo rice makes it a reasonable choice to improve strength. If not major benefits, the bamboo rice protein can help you with brittle nails, fatty liver, skin, and stunted growth.
Potential Side Effects of Bamboo Rice
Due to its relative newness alongside the health-promoting foods, there are no reliable studies that establish the health facts of bamboo rice. Therefore, while it is largely safe, those who have the following health condition should avoid bamboo rice-
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Pregnant and breastfeeding women-
Pregnant ladies have to stay cautious of their diet as they carry the additional responsibility of the baby. Due to the lack of scientific proof regarding the health benefits of bamboo rice, it is advised that pregnant and lactating women should avoid consuming green rice.
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Patients with thyroid disorders-
Those who deal with hypothyroidism, goiter, or thyroid tumor should completely avoid the consumption of bamboo rice because of the reasons given above. Also, people who are on regular thyroid drugs should also avoid bamboo rice as it may interact with the medicines and dramatically drop the thyroid levels.
Conclusion
To conclude, bamboo rice should become a part of the diet only after the recommendation of a healthcare professional or nutritionist. It contains natural medicinal properties that are truly rare. However, while the health benefits of bamboo rice are abundant, the studies to support these benefits are insufficient. Thus, it may be a rich nutrition addition for people used to it but certainly needs approval from health professionals, especially if you deal with any underlying disease.
