CAVE NEST
Cave nests are the nests that are made in the caves and on the cliffs. Cave nests are generally harder and contain more impurities as they are built on the cliff. Harvesting cave nests brought up many problems as the ecological environment of the swiftlet is being destroyed and created controversy among the environmental activists. Therefore, the production of cave nests is decreasing. The price of the cave nests is generally higher as it is dangerous to harvest them from the steep terrain of the caves.
HOUSE NEST
House nests are the nests that are constructed in the swiftlet farms. The main difference between the two types of bird’s nests is the nesting environment. With appropriately designed house nest houses, a good management system and a clean environment, the bird’s nests produced will have a better quality as they contain fewer impurities. The nutrients of the bird’s nests are also maintained as they are harvested regularly.
Swiftlet farms act as a natural habitat for the swiftlets and they are attracted to the farm using audio equipment. The swiftlet carries out their daily activities in a preserved habitat, leaving the farm to search for food in the morning and return in the evening to roost. The swiftlets are strong in breeding, every time they mate, they will build a new nest. Hence the abandoned old nest can be harvested.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
The main nutritional value of the bird’s nest is water soluble proteins and carbohydrates, also with nutrients calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, potassium and vitamin B1.
1000 grams of bird’ nest contains 499 grams of proteins, 429 grams of calcium, 306 grams of carbohydrates, 30 milligrams of phosphorus, 104 grams of water, 49 milligrams of iron and other nutrients.
Bird’s nest contains Epidermic Growth Factor(EGF) which stimulates cell growth, regenerates and strengthens the immune system. Calcium contained in the bird’s nest can help the body to increase the absorption of vitamin B12. Moreover, bird’s nest which is rich in collagen and minerals is known as the best beauty product as it promotes anti-aging and smoothens the skin. Many celebrities consume bird’s nest regularly to maintain beauty and youthfulness. Bird’s nest is also rich in amino acids which help in cell reproduction and growth of human tissue.
Women
Bird’s nest is not just the primary choice for a natural skin supplement, but it is the super-food for anti-aging. This is due to bird’s nest containing anti-oxidant minerals that fight the signs of aging. It also lightens skin pigmentation and reduces wrinkles, thus diminishing the fear of aging. It can effectively nurture the skin to promote the benefits of lightening, tightening, moisturizing and smoothening. Bird’s nest also contains a high quantity of gelatinous minerals, which also has a slimming effect and thus translates to a shapelier bodyline. In a nutshell, bird’s nest is the best anti-aging health product for women.
Men
Bird’s nest is not just a God-send for women, but it is also a supplement to replenish vitality for men. The rich protein and carbohydrate in bird’s nest quickly reenergizes its regular consumers. Long-term consumption will help to improve the mental alertness and energy level, as well as the virility of men. This is especially beneficial for working adults who live a hectic life since consuming bird’s nest helps reduce the level of lethargy and stress.
Pregnant Mothers
Under the concept of dual nourishment for both mother and fetus, expectant mothers must be careful of their food intake to promote the development of healthy fetuses. The rich, active protein C in bird’s nest not only spurs the growth of human tissues, but with all the abundant nutrients it contains, bird’s nest is also able to raise the immunity levels of the human body. This helps lead to a stronger and fairer newborn. Secondly, bird’s nest has the property of stabilizing and calming pregnancies, thus easing the travail during childbirth.
Elderly
Bird’s nest’s gelatinous component contains rich collagen that alleviates the pain of arthritis. Consumption of bird’s nest can improve appetite, aid digestion, strengthen the physique, nourish lungs, improve eyesight as well and elevate the immune system.
Children
For diminutive young bodies, bird’s nest can boost the immune system, strengthen the body and alleviate allergies. It also improves the appetite and metabolism of children. Bird’s nest contains multiple amino acids that promote mental alertness in children when consumed regularly. It is the best natural supplement for boosting their energy level and mental faculties when they study. If and when a child is suffering from whooping cough, consumption of bird’s nest can stop the coughing and heal the lungs.
Adolescents
Adolescence is the period where the most rapid growth of the body takes place. It is a time when sufficient nutrients are required to meet the demands of the physical, psychological and intellectual developments that take place. Bird’s nest contains Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) which can strengthen the physique, improve mental growth, enhance memory and promote all functional capacities of the body.
Patients
Bird’s nest is an organic food product that contains natural nutrients and amino acids. It helps patients improve their metabolism, revitalize their energy and strengthen the functions of their organs. For those who suffer from tracheitis, asthma or regularly contract colds, regular consumption of bird’s nest soothes the trachea and sustains a clear respiratory system that will enable the body to recuperate quickly. The efficacy of bird’s nest in nurturing the renal and respiratory functions can alleviate the deficiency of both systems. Bird’s nest is effective in promoting a quick recovery from illness and helps patients regain their vitality quickly.
Is bird’s nest good for you? It may not sound appealing but the viscous mucus that forms the nests contains glycoprotein and sialic acid. These can contribute to immunity. The mucus is also high in growth factors and has a neutral energetic property that promotes immunity. Together, these components give a bird’s nest its health benefits.
Moreover, thanks to the proteins and nutrients found inside, edible bird’s nest has long been a favorite of patients recovering from illnesses such as asthma, chronic coughs, and other respiratory-related health problems.
Bird nest benefits include its ability to get rid of phlegm and treat dry cough. It can also combat fatigue, increase appetite, improve digestion, and induce bowel movement, all symptoms typically experienced by the elderly. It’s no wonder some people think that this is only for the aged.
In reality, its proteins and minerals also work as a growth supplement for children. Furthermore, it has become more popular amongst millennials, particularly in China. In 2019, Chinese e-commerce site JD.com reported that 60% of the company’s sales of bird’s nest in 2019 came from consumers ages 16 to 35.
Is bird’s nest good for health? Good health is not the only perk of bird’s nest consumption. Another bird nest benefit is that it’s filled with epidermal growth factor (EGF) that repairs tissue, rejuvenates skin, and is used as a “beauty food.” What’s more, the nest also can boost men’s sexual performance.
In TCM, physicians may prescribe bird’s nest to help manage cold and flu. Overall, it can help prevent lung disease, and improve Kidney and Spleen function.
