Can people with a fever eat water bamboo (Zizania latifolia)?
Jun 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
Whether or not one can eat water bamboo (Zizania latifolia) during a fever depends on the severity of the illness. In mild cases, when digestive function remains adequate, the nutrients in water bamboo can aid recovery. However, in more severe cases where bodily functions are weakened and gastrointestinal digestion is impaired, consuming water bamboo may place additional strain on the body. Regardless of illness severity, intake of water bamboo should be moderated and prepared using light cooking methods to avoid hindering recovery.
In general, whether bamboo shoots can be consumed during a fever should be determined based on the severity of the illness. If the illness is mild, moderate consumption of bamboo shoots may be acceptable, but if the illness is severe, it is not recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
In cases of mild fever, the body still maintains a certain level of digestive function and requires nutritional support to recover strength. Bamboo shoots are rich in protein, vitamins, and dietary fiber, which can provide energy and replenish nutrients consumed during the fever. The vitamins contained in bamboo shoots can also enhance immunity, while the dietary fiber can promote intestinal motility and help prevent constipation that may occur during fever. Therefore, consuming bamboo shoots during a mild fever may help the body recover more quickly.
When the fever is severe and the body temperature remains high for a prolonged period, overall bodily functions significantly decline, particularly with marked weakening of gastrointestinal digestion. At this time, consuming bamboo shoots may cause the dietary fiber to burden the gastrointestinal system, potentially leading to discomfort such as bloating and abdominal pain, thus affecting recovery. Additionally, the body needs to concentrate its energy to fight the illness and may not effectively digest and absorb the nutrients from bamboo shoots. Therefore, bamboo shoots should not be consumed during a severe fever.
Regardless of the severity of the fever, bamboo shoots should be consumed in controlled quantities, and cooking methods should preferably be light and清淡 (light-flavored), avoiding frying or other methods that may burden the gastrointestinal system.
