Bamboo Rice Benefits – Nutrition, Uses, and Health Benefits

Bamboo rice is an unpopular but highly nutritious grain obtained from a dying bamboo shoot. This rice, abundant in antioxidants, fibre, protein, fibre and carbohydrates, is touted for its ability to promote overall wellness.

From reducing cholesterol to relieving rheumatic pain, the bamboo rice benefits in promoting health are many. Continue reading this article as it highlights the benefits of bamboo rice, which makes it an excellent addition to your diet.

What is Bamboo Rice?

When the bamboo shot breathes its last, it flowers into a rare variety of rice seeds called bamboo rice. It is known by alternative names such as Mulayari, Moongil Arisi in Tamil and Veduru Biyyam in Telugu.

Nutrition Facts of Bamboo Rice

The nutrition contained in 100 grams of bamboo rice is given below:

Benefits of Bamboo Rice

Here are some of the remarkable bamboo rice benefits for health:

Reduces Rheumatic and Joint Pain

Bamboo rice, rich in calcium, helps improve bone density and relieve joint pain and discomfort associated with arthritis, rheumatism, and spine issues.

Improves Oral Health

Bamboo rice is a rich source of Vitamin B6, which plays a key role in preventing tooth damage and decay. Furthermore, it helps fight tooth cavities, strengthens the teeth, and reduces mild and severe gum inflammation.

Promotes digestion

Bamboo rice, high in fibre, supports intestinal health and promotes a healthy gut. It helps stimulate food movement through the digestive tract and adds bulk to the stool, benefiting the gastrointestinal system.

Treats Cough

Bamboo rice in phosphorus is beneficial in treating coughs and curing respiratory problems, including asthma.

Perfect for Those Monitoring their Weight

Bamboo rice contains more protein than both rice and wheat, making it an excellent addition for those monitoring their weight. A small serving provides significantly more protein than regular rice, so individuals who aim to increase their protein intake without adding excessive calories to their diet can use bamboo rice.

Regulates Cholesterol Levels

Bamboo rice contains high amounts of fibre and phytosterols. Phytosterol is a plant sterol that is similar to the cholesterol in humans. Phytosterol can block the absorption of bad cholesterol into the body, which can lower the cholesterol levels in the body, thereby preventing the risk of heart disease.

Manages Diabetes

One of the significant bamboo rice benefits is that it has a low glycaemic index compared to other varieties of rice. This makes bamboo rice a healthier option for those with diabetes or individuals looking to manage their blood sugar levels.

Improves Fertility

As mentioned in the article published by the Ayurved Darpan Journal of Indian Medicine, rats that were fed bamboo seeds became extremely sexually active, and female rats gave birth to almost 800 offspring. Moreover, there is a belief among the Kani tribe of the Kanyakumari district of South India that bamboo seeds can enhance fertility.

Prevents Vitamin Deficiencies

Vitamin B6 is a crucial vitamin required for the production of red blood cells and nerve conduction. Vitamin B6 deficiency can lead to anaemia, Alzheimer’s, epilepsy and other diseases. Bamboo rice, rich in vitamin B6, can prevent these conditions.

Promotes Bone Health

Bamboo rice, which contains a large number of bioactive substances like alkaloids, polysaccharides, and flavonoids, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help reduce inflammatory cytokines and manage conditions like back pain, rheumatism, and joint discomfort.

Enhances Cognitive Health

Bamboo rice can enhance cognitive health as it is rich in vitamins that can promote overall health, RBC formation, and nerve functioning, all of which contribute to cognitive development.

Bamboo Rice for Kids

The bamboo rice benefits for health are immense making it an excellent supplement for children due to its rich nutritional profile. It supports children in the following ways:

• Boosts energy levels with an abundance of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
• Detoxifies vital organs and enhances their functionality.
• Stimulates appetite and aids in relieving indigestion.
• Eases pain and helps prevent the onset of certain bone-related diseases.
• Promotes the growth and strengthening of bones and muscles.
• Supports dental development and oral hygiene.

How to Cook Bamboo Rice?

Bamboo rice can be cooked just like normal rice. It’s better to soak bamboo rice for 30 minutes before cooking. Now, pressure cook the rice for five to six whistles, and it’s ready to be served. The stock of bamboo rice need not be discarded and can be used for other purposes as it is a nutritious water.

Recipes Using Bamboo Rice

Here are some of the ways you can use Bamboo rice to create many delicious recipes:

• Bamboo rice payasam/kheer: Wash and soak ½ cup bamboo rice for 30 minutes. After pressure cooking bamboo rice for 6 whistles, keep it aside. Boil 2 cups of milk in a thick-bottomed vessel and add the cooked bamboo rice to it. Cook it further until the milk is reduced to half the quantity. Now add sugar and 1 cup of coconut milk. Simmer for a while and serve it hot. Garnish the payasam with the cashews fried in ghee.

• Bamboo rice Pulao: This flavourful rice dish can be prepared by cooking Bamboo rice with other vegetables and spices.

• Bamboo rice idli and dosa: You can bring a twist to your favourite South Indian breakfast by using bamboo rice to prepare the batter for idli and dosa.

Bamboo Rice vs White Rice

Even though both bamboo rice and white rice are known for their distinct flavours and textures, bamboo rice can be considered a healthier choice. As a whole grain, bamboo rice is abundant with fibre, antioxidants, and essential minerals that support overall health and well-being. However, white rice is a refined grain with fewer nutrients, increasing the risk of chronic diseases.

Takeaway

The bamboo rice benefits are incredible, from boosting digestive health to supporting blood sugar regulation. Even though bamboo rice is not widely known compared to other rice varieties, it is a versatile and delicious option that can be enjoyed in various dishes. The unique flavour and impressive health benefits of bamboo rice make it a rice variety that you should try and experience the many ways it can enhance your health and well-being.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Bamboo Rice Benefits

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