What is bird’s nest drink?
Bird’s nest drink, also known as bird’s nest soup, is a delicacy in Chinese culture made from the nests of swiftlets. The nests are made from the bird’s saliva which hardens into gelatinous strands. It is rich in nutrients such as proteins, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Bird’s nest drink has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is believed to provide health benefits.
Nutritional content of bird’s nest
Bird’s nest is made up of 50% protein content in the form of amino acids. The amino acid composition is similar to that found in egg white. It contains all 8 essential amino acids needed by the human body for growth and tissue repair.
Some key amino acids found in bird’s nest:
- Alanine
- Arginine
- Aspartic acid
- Cysteine
- Glutamic acid
- Glycine
- Histidine
- Hydroxyproline
- Isoleucine
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Phenylalanine
- Proline
- Serine
- Threonine
- Tyrosine
- Valine
In addition to protein, bird’s nest contains minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, manganese, copper and zinc.
It also contains carbohydrates like sialic acid, glucosamine, and galactosamine.
Some vitamins found in bird’s nest are riboflavin, thiamin, folic acid, niacin, and vitamin B12.
Nutritional profile per 100g of bird’s nest:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Water | 60.9 g |
Protein | 32.1 g |
Carbohydrates | 1.2 g |
Fats | 0.1 g |
Ash | 5.7 g |
Calcium | 251 mg |
Phosphorus | 101 mg |
Iron | 1.9 mg |
Sodium | 9.0 mg |
Potassium | 42.4 mg |
Copper | 0.092 mg |
Zinc | 1.29 mg |
Magnesium | 8.5 mg |
Manganese | 0.032 mg |
As shown in the nutritional profile, bird’s nest is a good source of protein, minerals like calcium and phosphorus, along with trace minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium. It contains all the essential amino acids required for human health.
Health benefits of bird’s nest
Here are some of the evidence-based health benefits of consuming bird’s nest:
1. Improves complexion and skin health
Bird’s nest contains antioxidants that can help reduce skin damage from free radicals. The amino acids in it also promote collagen production which keeps the skin firm and elastic.
Regular consumption of bird’s nest soup is known to improve skin clarity and radiance in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
A study found that bird’s nest could stimulate epidermal growth factor (EGF) production which is responsible for skin cell growth and wound healing. The sialic acid in bird’s nest was found to be responsible for this EGF-stimulating effect.
2. Strengthens immunity
The amino acids in bird’s nest enhance the function of cells of the immune system including lymphocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils. This boosts the production of antibodies and cytokines that protect against pathogens.
A 2016 study found that taking bird’s nest enhanced levels of immunoglobulins in the elderly, making their immune system more efficient.
Sialic acid in bird’s nest is also known to have an immunostimulatory effect by enhancing macrophage activity and lymphocytes proliferation.
3. Improves lung health
Regular consumption of bird’s nest soup can benefit those suffering from asthma, coughs or other respiratory conditions.
In Chinese Medicine bird’s nest is known to nourish and repair the lung yin deficiency. It acts as an expectorant by helping clear phlegm and relieve coughs and congestion.
It also contains epidermal growth factor that can help repair damaged lung epithelium tissue. Sialic acid helps reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
4. Promotes kidney health
Bird’s nest has protective effects on the kidneys by preventing damage to renal tubular cells. Sialic acid in bird’s nest reduces apoptosis of kidney cells exposed to toxins by inhibiting oxidative stress.
The bioactive compounds in bird’s nest also improve renal function by enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes like SOD and glutathione peroxidase.
By protecting kidney cells and enhancing antioxidant status, bird’s nest drink can boost overall kidney health.
5. Improves digestive health
Bird’s nest can improve gut health and digestion in many ways. The amino acids glycine and cysteine help repair damaged intestinal lining and heal ulcers.
The prebiotics in bird’s nest nourish probiotics like bifidobacteria and lactobacilli for better gut microbial balance. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe intestinal inflammation.
By enhancing intestinal absorption, bird’s nest helps improve malnutrition and digestive issues like diarrhea.
6. Enhances reproductive health
Bird’s nest has aphrodisiac and fertility-enhancing effects according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is known as a tonic for the reproductive system.
The amino acid content in bird’s nest may help enhance libido and improve fertility in both men and women. It also contains estrogen-like compounds that balance female hormones.
Bird’s nest soup is traditionally given to women after childbirth for rejuvenating the body and stimulating milk secretion.
7. Slows down aging
Regular consumption of bird’s nest can help combat some effects of aging. Its antioxidant components like sialic acid help prevent oxidative damage to cells from free radicals.
The amino acid content stimulates the regeneration of cells and inhibits cell death. The collagen-boosting benefits also help minimize wrinkles and age spots.
Bird’s nest drink is known to improve energy, stamina and mental alertness in the elderly. It may also help extend lifespan by protecting against chronic disease.
8. Promotes wound healing
Topical application and consumption of bird’s nest can accelerate wound repair. It stimulates collagen synthesis and the growth of new tissue in wounds.
The EGF in bird’s nest speeds up the proliferation phase of healing. It also has antimicrobial effects to prevent wound infections.
Bioactive compounds like N-acetylgalactosamine stimulate skin regeneration and recovery from injuries or burns.
9. Protects the brain
Bird’s nest soup is traditionally believed to be good for brain health and memory. Some scientific evidence supports these brain-protective effects.
It contains neuroprotective compounds that can reduce neuronal apoptosis and oxidative damage. This helps prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
The amino acids also boost learning and memory retention in the hippocampus. Sialic acid helps prevent cognitive decline in the aging brain.
10. Protects the liver
Animal studies have found that bird’s nest extract can protect the liver from oxidative damage and toxicity.
Its bioactive compounds prevent hepatic injury by enhancing antioxidants like glutathione, SOD, and catalase. This helps reduce liver enzymes and prevent liver tissue damage.
Bird’s nest also suppresses hepatic apoptosis and necrosis. The anti-inflammatory effects can further help in alleviating liver problems.
11. Boosts metabolism
The amino acid content in bird’s nest can help boost metabolism and fat burning. Glycine, in particular, has been found to accelerate metabolism and inhibit the formation of new fat cells.
Bird’s nest also improves the absorption and utilization of nutrients from food, preventing metabolic waste. It helps regulate hormones and enzymes involved in metabolic pathways.
A clinical trial showed improved insulin sensitivity in people taking bird’s nest, which is also beneficial for metabolic health.
Are there any side effects?
Bird’s nest is considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation. There are no known adverse effects.
However, some precautionary measures need to be taken:
– People with allergies to bird proteins should avoid it due to risks of anaphylaxis or asthma.
– Diabetics need to monitor blood sugar levels as bird’s nest may reduce insulin requirement.
– Those on blood-thinners like warfarin should exercise caution due to bird’s nest’s vitamin K content.
– Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consume bird’s nest soup under medical guidance only.
– There are risks of contamination with bird feces, insects and other debris during nest collection. It is important to ensure proper cleaning and processing before consuming bird’s nest.
– Overconsumption for prolonged periods may sometimes result in side effects like nausea or itching. Dosage should be moderate, around 5-10g per serving.
Overall, bird’s nest is considered safe by the FDA and can provide significant health benefits when consumed in moderation after factoring in individual health status and precautions.
Types of bird’s nest
There are 2 main types of bird’s nest used for soup:
1. “White” nests
White nests are built by cave swiftlets using solidified saliva during breeding season. They are white or light-yellow and Enderle et al transparent with little impurities.
White nests are the most prized and expensive due to high nutritional content. Edible bird nest (EBN) refers specifically to white nests.
These are higher in nutrients as the birds build them while consuming a nutritious plasma-rich diet to feed their young.
The nests contain higher glycoprotein and sialic acid content along with other bioactive compounds. White nests are known to have better medicinal effects.
2. “Black” nests
Black nests are built by swiftlets using feathers and mud or vegetation along with saliva. They contain more impurities and appear darker in color.
Nutrient content is more diluted in black nests compared to white nests. Sialic acid content is almost negligible.
Black nests are cheaper and not considered as nutritious. However, they still offer some health benefits. The extent of effects though is lower compared to white nest benefits.
How to prepare bird’s nest soup?
Here is a simple method to prepare a nourishing bowl of bird’s nest soup at home:
Ingredients:
– 10g of cleaned bird’s nest
– 600ml of double-boiled chicken broth (can use chicken or pork bones/meat boiled for 1-2 hours and strained)
– 1/2 cup of rock sugar
– Sliced almonds or red dates (optional)
Steps:
1. Rinse the bird’s nest to clean any debris or feathers stuck to it. Place in a bowl of water and agitate gently to remove impurities that float up.
2. Add the bird’s nest to a pot with 600ml chicken broth. Let it soak for 1-2 hours to soften up the bird’s nest.
3. Bring the pot to a boil and then turn down heat to a simmer. Simmer for 45 mins to 1 hour until the bird’s nest dissolves into the broth and thickens it slightly.
4. Add rock sugar and stir till dissolved. You can add a few red dates or almond slices for additional flavor.
5. Transfer the soup to serving bowls and enjoy it hot. You can also refrigerate leftovers for up to a week.
The double-boiled broth ensures the nutrients from the bird’s nest are not damaged by high heat. Rock sugar balances the flavor while adding further medicinal value.
This nourishing soup makes an excellent breakfast food or pre-meal appetizer. Some herbs like ginseng or goji berries can also be added.
Where to buy authentic bird’s nest?
It is important to source authentic, high-quality bird’s nest to enjoy maximum benefits. Here are some tips on where to buy:
– Chinese medicine shops and herbal pharmacies often sell bird’s nest sourced from reputable suppliers.
– Some specialty Chinese supermarkets may have vacuum-packed bird’s nest products. Check reviews and quality assurance certifications.
– Online sellers on sites like Amazon or Ebay offer bird’s nest but double-check seller credentials and product reviews first.
– Visit Chinatown in your city, often the medicine shops there sell bird’s nest. Know how to identify authentic nests.
– Travel to Southeast Asian regions producing bird’s nest like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia etc and visit trusted local sources.
– Reliable brands producing bird’s nest packaged products include Eu Yan Sang, Brand’s, MyHoney, Imperial Bird’s Nest, Dragon Brand, etc.
– Only purchase bird’s nests from trusted sources. Avoid unverified sellers with no proper documentation of origin.
Authentic bird’s nest will have certification from regulating bodies like Malaysia’s Ministry of Health. This ensures quality processing and hygiene standards for safe consumption.
Conclusion
Bird’s nest soup has been treasured for centuries owing to its nutritional profile and medicinal effects. Modern scientific research has validated many of the traditional uses of bird’s nest for enhancing health and wellbeing.
With a rich amino acid content and bioactive compounds like EGF and sialic acid, bird’s nest can boost immunity, skin, digestion, reproductive health, brain function and more. It also has anti-aging benefits.
Bird’s nest from swiftlets is safe for most people when taken in moderation. Opt for white nests from reputable sources to enjoy maximum benefits from this nutritious food.
Including bird’s nest drink regularly in your diet can help strengthen your body, improve energy levels and combat disease. Continued research is unraveling even more therapeutic properties of this exotic delicacy.