A groundbreaking study has highlighted the anti-obesity properties of Melye-amiley, a traditional fermented bamboo shoot variety from Tripura.
Conducted by Prof. Mojibur R. Khan and his team at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), this research offers a natural dietary solution for managing weight and enhancing metabolic health, according to a press release by the Ministry of Science and Technology. The findings, published in Food Frontiers, reveal the multiple health benefits of this traditional food and underscore the importance of preserving indigenous dietary practices.
What makes fermented bamboo shoots unique?
Traditional fermentation techniques have been part of human civilisation for centuries.
In northeastern India, communities have developed unique methods for fermenting bamboo shoots, which enhances their nutritional value and flavour.
According to Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and diabetes educator, fermented bamboo shoots like Melye-amiley are low in calories and high in dietary fibre, promoting satiety and helping control appetite. The fermentation process enriches these shoots with bioactive compounds that support metabolic health, making them a nutrient-dense food option.
Bamboo shoots have immense potential as important health foods as they contain a high content of useful protein, amino acids, carbohydrates, many important minerals and vitamins, and are low in fat. (Pic source: Pixabay)
How does it aid weight loss?
The IASST study identified several mechanisms through which Melye-amiley supports weight management, Malhotra said:
- Lipid Breakdown: It reduces intracellular lipid accumulation by increasing the expression of fat-breaking genes such as HSL, LPL, and Agtl.
- Thermogenesis: The extract enhances the expression of thermogenic proteins (e.g., UCP1) via the AMPK signaling pathway, boosting mitochondrial biogenesis and energy expenditure.
- Fatty Acid Oxidation: By upregulating genes like PGC1-alpha, it facilitates efficient fat burning, further aiding weight loss.
These combined effects make Melye-amiley a powerful natural aid for managing obesity and improving metabolic health.
Broader benefits of fermented foods
Fermented foods like Melye-amiley not only assist in weight management, Malhotra noted, but also offer several other health benefits:
- Improved Gut Health: Rich in probiotics, they support a balanced gut microbiome.
- Enhanced Nutrient Absorption: Fermentation makes vitamins and minerals more bioavailable.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Bioactive compounds produced during fermentation reduce inflammation.
- Immune Boosting: Probiotics enhance immune function and reduce the risk of infections.
The findings from this study underscore the importance of preserving traditional dietary practices. Indigenous foods like Melye-amiley provide cultural and culinary richness and contribute to modern health solutions. As Malhotra notes, incorporating such foods into a balanced diet can improve health outcomes while honouring age-old traditions.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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