The bamboo shoot shell is rich in xanthone, a group of polyphenols that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and glucose metabolism properties.
Research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology shows that xanthone extract from bamboo shoots helps inhibit alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase enzymes, two enzymes involved in breaking down carbohydrates into glucose, thereby slowing down the absorption of sugar after meals.
After 26 weeks of using low-dose bamboo shoots extract, the group of type 2 diabetics had an average reduction of HbA1c of 0.6% and fasting blood sugar was more stable than the group using fake drugs.
Insulin resistance - typical of type 2 diabetes is a major factor in metabolic disorders. According to a synthesis analysis by Nutrition & Diabetes (Nature), xanthone from bamboo shoots helps reduce the manifestation of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL6) and increase insulin sensitivity in muscle tissue.
This helps improve the body's ability to use glucose without completely dependence on drugs.
Tangerines also contain vitamin C, folate and manganese - microorganisms that play a role in the process of antioxidation and support energy metabolism in the liver and pancreas.
How to eat tangerine without increasing blood sugar?
Although the bamboo shoot meat is delicious, it still contains natural fructose, which can increase blood sugar if eaten too much. Therefore, the right way to eat bamboo shoots for people who need to control blood sugar is:
Eat 1-2 small fruits at a time, up to 3 times/week. Each fruit contains about 10-12g of carbs, equivalent to 1/2 of a serving of fruit.
Eat in the mid-morning or afternoon, avoid eating when hungry or right after a main meal as it will increase your overall glycemic index.
Do not drink bottled bamboo shoots juice, which often contains added sugar or sweeteners, which can increase blood sugar levels quickly.
Combine with healthy fats such as a few walnuts or unsweetened Greek yogurt to slow down the absorption of sugar.
Some supplements on the market today have peel-based or capsule-shaped bamboo shoots extracted.
The safe dosage of xanthone from bamboo shoots is below 400mg/day, do not arbitrarily use high doses or use fresh shells mixed with tea if not treated cleanly due to the risk of microorganisms or pesticide residues.
