Can patients with gastritis eat water bamboo shoots (Zizania latifolia)?

Jun 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Shen Yonghua

Introduction

Whether patients with gastritis can eat water bamboo shoots (Zizania latifolia) depends on the severity of their condition. In mild gastritis, where the gastric mucosa is only slightly damaged and digestion is relatively normal, cooked water bamboo shoots are easily absorbed and may be consumed in moderation. However, in severe gastritis, where the gastric mucosa is significantly damaged, water bamboo shoots may be difficult to digest and could irritate the stomach, thus they should be avoided. Regardless of the situation, portion control is important, and the bamboo shoots should be prepared in a light and清淡 (light-flavored) manner.

Whether patients with gastritis can eat water bamboo (Zizania latifolia) depends on the severity of the gastritis. Patients with mild gastritis may consume it in moderation, whereas those with severe gastritis are advised against eating it. The explanation is as follows:

In the stage of mild gastritis, the gastric mucosa is only mildly damaged, and although digestive function is affected, it can still maintain basic operation. Water bamboo is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Consuming it in moderation can provide essential nutrients. Its tender texture becomes soft after cooking, making it easy to digest and unlikely to burden the gastrointestinal tract. However, it should be thoroughly cooked and prepared as light dishes, such as stir-fried water bamboo or soup, to help patients with mild gastritis maintain nutrient intake while minimizing gastric irritation.

When gastritis progresses to the severe stage, extensive erosion and ulcers may develop in the gastric mucosa, with significantly impaired digestive function, leaving the stomach very sensitive. At this stage, even after cooking, the dietary fiber in water bamboo remains difficult for the weakened gastrointestinal tract to digest. This can increase the burden on gastric motility, stimulate excessive gastric acid secretion, worsen mucosal damage, and lead to discomfort such as pain and bloating, delaying recovery. Therefore, patients with severe gastritis should temporarily avoid consuming water bamboo.

Regardless of the stage of gastritis, intake of water bamboo should be moderate, and cooking methods should remain light, avoiding excessive use of irritating seasonings.

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