What are the functions and benefits of snow swallow (a type of edible bird's nest)?
Generally speaking, the main functions and benefits of snow swallow (Xueyan) include moisturizing the body, providing dietary fiber, assisting in regulating the intestines, replenishing nutrients, and improving skin condition. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Moisturizing the Body
Snow swallow is rich in plant mucilage, which can absorb a large amount of water and form a viscous texture after soaking. Consuming it helps replenish body fluids, and its mucilaginous components can form a moist protective layer in the mouth and digestive tract, alleviating symptoms such as dry mouth and throat. It is especially suitable for consumption in dry environments or seasons.
2. Providing Dietary Fiber
Snow swallow contains abundant dietary fiber, a component that is not easily digested and absorbed by the human body but can increase the volume of food. Upon entering the intestines, it can promote intestinal peristalsis and help maintain normal intestinal motility rhythm, thereby offering some assistance in relieving constipation.
3. Assisting Intestinal Regulation
Dietary fiber can serve as a nutrient source for beneficial intestinal bacteria, helping maintain a balanced intestinal microbiota. By improving the intestinal microenvironment, it indirectly supports normal digestive function and reduces digestive discomfort caused by microbial imbalance, thus promoting a more stable intestinal condition.
4. Replenishing Nutrients
Snow swallow contains various amino acids, minerals, and other nutrients essential for normal bodily functions. Moderate consumption can provide partial nutritional support to meet a small portion of daily nutritional needs, making it suitable as a supplementary ingredient in daily diets.
5. Improving Skin Condition
After being absorbed by the body, the plant mucilage in snow swallow helps maintain skin hydration. Additionally, its nutrient content supports skin metabolism, helping improve dryness and lack of elasticity, thus promoting a more moisturized and healthier skin appearance.
Before consumption, snow swallow should be fully soaked to remove impurities. The soaking process usually requires more than 10 hours, after which its volume significantly increases. Each serving should not be excessive, as overconsumption may burden the gastrointestinal system, potentially causing discomfort such as bloating. Pregnant women, infants, young children, and individuals allergic to snow swallow components are advised to consult a healthcare professional before consumption.