For people looking for the next superfood, bamboo might be the unexpected answer. Bamboo has been a staple food in the cuisines of many Asian cultures, but researchers at Anglia Ruskin University found that everyone can benefit from eating the fast-growing plant, as it offers a host of health benefits. After reviewing existing literature on bamboo, they ascertained that the plant may help regulate blood sugar levels, improve gut health, and enhance the body’s anti-inflammatory response. The plant is known for its surprisingly high protein content and nutritional value, with vitamin A, B6, E, thiamine, and niacin within its shoots. The plant can also provide healthy levels of fiber, which can help your digestive system operate smoothly. In their review, the ARU researchers factored in the four studies worldwide that have examined bamboo’s health benefits, ranging from human trials to lab-based studies on human cells. They caveated their findings by stating that “additional high-quality human trials are necessary before we can make firm recommendations.”
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