Bird’s Nest: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Bird’s nest is incredibly nutritious. However, not everyone fully understands its benefits and how to use it effectively. Let’s explore the effects of bird’s nest with AVAKids!

1What is Bird’s Nest?

Bird’s nest, also known as edible bird’s nest, is a natural organic compound, rich in nutrients and easily absorbed. Harvested from the nests of swiftlets, it’s a highly valued food for its nutritional content. Natural bird’s nests are primarily produced in coastal regions of countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Considered a delicacy, it commands a high price.

Bird’s nest is rich in nutrients and easily absorbed

2Nutritional Composition of Bird’s Nest

• Beyond being a delicious dish, bird’s nest is also a component of traditional Chinese medicine, known for its high nutritional and medicinal properties.
• The most abundant component in bird’s nest is protein. It contains all the essential amino acids that make up protein. They also contain two hormones, including testosterone and estradiol.
• Bird’s nest also contains carbohydrates and trace elements like calcium, sodium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, and iron. Previous research has shown that bird’s nest contains substances that can stimulate cell division and growth, enhancing tissue development and regeneration.
• It’s also rich in bioactive compounds that can boost health, including glucosamine, sialic acid, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids.

Win’sNest Kids Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml/jar (from 1 year old)

3Benefits of Bird’s Nest

3.1. Nutritional Support for Brain Development

Components like magnesium, phenylalanine, copper, and zinc in bird’s nest are excellent for brain development, improving memory, and supporting a stable nervous system. Amino acids in bird’s nest also impact the brain, contributing to long-term cognitive enhancement and fostering positive thinking in children.

3.2. Enhanced Calcium Supply

The calcium in bird’s nest is easily absorbed, promoting growth and development. Bird’s nest extract contains active components that can reduce the occurrence of arthritis and contribute to cartilage regeneration. It also contains amino acids that support bone development.

Box of 4 jars of Win’sNest Junior Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml/jar (from 1 year old)

3.3. Immune System Boost

Bird’s nest contains sialic acid (N-acetylneuraminic acid), which promotes growth and development. It’s also an immune system mediator that helps repel pathogens. Additionally, it repairs epidermal cells and stimulates the immune system, promoting better sleep, increasing resistance to illness, and aiding growth. It’s especially beneficial for those with poor appetites, malnutrition, or frequent minor illnesses.

3.4. Digestive Support

Those with weak digestive systems, especially recovering patients and children, can benefit from bird’s nest. It’s easily digestible and nutrient-rich, aiding in faster recovery.

Box of 3 jars of Win’sNest Kids Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml

3.5. Complete Source of Trace Elements

Glycoprotein in bird’s nest enhances nutrient absorption and provides energy. Carbohydrates and trace elements like iron, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, amino acids, and sialic acid provide a comprehensive range of nutrients. Bird’s nest offers 18 amino acids, 50% protein to support bodily functions, and 31 trace elements, nourishing the body and providing essential nutrients.

3.6. Blood Enrichment

Iron, crucial for hemoglobin synthesis, is present in bird’s nest. This makes it beneficial for those with anemia or iron deficiency. Aspartic acid in bird’s nest promotes red blood cell growth, aiding muscle tissue growth, cell regeneration, and replenishing red blood cell deficiency in anemic individuals. For children, consider adding syrup to further reduce the risk of anemia.

Nunest Kids Banana Flavored Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml

3.7. Provides a Good Source of Energy

Bird’s nest is known for its ability to provide sustained energy. While galactose is fat-free, it’s rich in iron, offering a healthy energy source.

3.8. Prevents Malnutrition, Rickets, and Loss of Appetite

Bird’s nest helps prevent malnutrition and osteoporosis. Its nutrients strengthen the immune system, improve absorption and digestion, and promote cell growth.

Nunest Kids Strawberry Flavored Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml/jar (from 6 months)

3.9. Improves Eyesight

Bird’s nest contains 18 of the 20 amino acids sought after by humans. Nine essential amino acids are needed for tissue development and repair. Bird’s nest is believed to support corneal tissue repair and maintain proper function by increasing cell regeneration, promoting better eyesight.

3.10. Good for the Respiratory System

Bird’s nest effectively restores lung function and manages chronic pulmonary tuberculosis and asthma. It also significantly improves cough with phlegm caused by smoking.

Thien Van Yen Rock Sugar Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml

3.11. Supports Diabetes Management

Leucine and isoleucine in bird’s nest help stabilize blood sugar levels. Phenylalanine promotes hemoglobin production, stimulating red blood cell and nutrient transport, which can improve diabetes management.

3.12. Prevents Aging

In Southeast Asian countries, regular consumption of bird’s nest is common for anti-aging purposes. The benefits include reduced illness, a stronger immune system, increased energy, better sleep, a healthy complexion, and improved fertility.

Pack of 6 jars of Tinh Hoa Kids Nest Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml/jar (from 1 year old)

3.13. Skin Beautification

Threonine in bird’s nest aids in the formation of collagen and elastin, crucial for skin regeneration and rebuilding its underlying structure. Combined with glycine, threonine helps prevent wrinkles, combat aging, prevent acne, freckles, and melasma, protecting and promoting smooth, firm skin. This is why women often incorporate bird’s nest into their routine for radiant skin and a healthy physique.

3.14. Postpartum Recovery Support

Consuming bird’s nest during pregnancy can aid in faster postpartum recovery, reduce hair loss, and contribute to healthier baby skin. It can also provide new mothers with extra energy, better sleep, and a greater sense of vitality.

3.15. Enhances Libido

Bird’s nest, rich in amino acids and essential minerals, boosts hormone levels, enhancing libido in both men and women. It also improves overall health and stamina.

Pack of 6 bottles of Green Bird Chia Seed Bird’s Nest Drink 185 ml

4 How to Choose Bird’s Nest Correctly

If you don’t have time to prepare bird’s nest yourself, you can opt for ready-made products. However, consider these points:

• Choose products with clear origins, safe ingredients, and from reputable manufacturers.
• Freshly stewed bird’s nest should be, well, fresh.
• Ensure the product undergoes a proper stewing process to avoid food poisoning.
• The production facility should meet food safety regulations and be licensed by relevant authorities.

Box of 6 jars of Win’sNest Rock Sugar Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml/jar (from 1 year old)

5 How to Use Bird’s Nest Effectively

5.1. Proper Preparation and Processing

Proper preparation preserves the flavor and nutrients. Follow these guidelines:

• Soak raw bird’s nest in clean water to remove feathers and impurities.
• Soak again in clean water until fully expanded. Soaking time depends on the type and maturity of the bird’s nest.
• Cook at the right temperature and duration. Steaming is best for preserving nutrients.
• Avoid excessive sugar, as it reduces nutritional value. Rock sugar is preferred for a mild sweetness.
• Add other ingredients like red dates, lotus seeds, or cordyceps for flavor and nutrition.


Add lotus seeds for a more fragrant and flavorful bird’s nest dish

5.2. Best Time to Consume Bird’s Nest

Nutritionists recommend consuming bird’s nest on an empty stomach, either in the morning or before bed. This aids digestion and nutrient absorption. You can also consume it between meals when your stomach is empty.

From 3 years old and above, children should consume bird’s nest daily for extra energy

5.3. Recommended Dosage by Age

While beneficial, excessive consumption can lead to nutrient overload and waste. Experts recommend the following dosages:

• **Children:** 1-3 years old: 50g/month, every other day. 3-10 years old: 100g/month, every other day, 6-7g/serving.
• **Pregnant women:** 4-7 months: 100g/month, every other day, 7g/serving. 8-9 months: 70g/month, every other day, 5g/serving.
• **Elderly:** Especially beneficial for seniors recovering from illness or surgery.
• **Patients:** During treatment: 5g/day, 150g/month.
• **Healthy individuals:** For health maintenance: 5g/serving, twice a week.

Pack of 6 jars of Saigon Anpha Apple Flavored Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml/jar (from 1 year old)

6How to Distinguish Real from Fake Bird’s Nest

Due to its high value, counterfeit bird’s nest exists. Here’s how to differentiate:

• **Color:** Real bird’s nest is off-white, while blood nest is orange, red, or reddish-orange. Fake nests might be pure white (agar-agar or flour with agenat).
• **Smell:** Real nests have a slightly fishy and musty odor. Fake ones might have a pungent or unusual smell.
• **Texture:** Real nests maintain their fibrous and chewy texture when soaked or cooked. Fake ones dissolve (starch-based).
• **Iodine test:** Fake nests turn the iodine solution blue (starch reaction).
• **Green tea test:** Fake blood nests (dyed) darken green tea. Real ones retain their color even at 100°C.

7Precautions When Consuming Bird’s Nest

7.1. Who Should Avoid Bird’s Nest?

• Pregnant women (first trimester): Risk of abdominal discomfort.
• Infants under 7 months old.
• Individuals with bird’s nest allergies.
• Patients with diabetes or pancreatitis.
• Individuals with headaches, colds, or cold extremities.

Khanh Hoa Sanest Kids Bird’s Nest Drink 62 ml (from 1 year old)

7.2. Consume in Moderation

Overconsumption can lead to indigestion and bloating, hindering nutrient absorption. While healthy individuals might tolerate daily consumption, the elderly and those with medical conditions should limit intake to 2-3 times a week (3g/serving).

Pack of 6 bottles of Green Bird Chia Seed Bird’s Nest Drink 185 ml/bottle (from 12 years old)

7.3. Optimal Timing for Consumption

Consuming bird’s nest on an empty stomach in the morning or before bed maximizes nutrient absorption. Avoid consuming after a full meal.

Box of 4 jars of Green Bird Babi Bird’s Nest Drink 72g (from 9 months)

7.4. Avoid Over-Stewing

Stew bird’s nest for 20-30 minutes depending on the type. Over-stewing reduces nutrients and makes it mushy. Under-stewing results in a less desirable texture.

Avoid over-stewing bird’s nest as it can diminish its nutrients and flavor

7.5. Postpartum Consumption Considerations

Avoid bird’s nest immediately after giving birth due to its “cooling” properties, which may increase the risk of asthma in newborns. Impurities in improperly cleaned bird’s nest can also be harmful during postpartum recovery. Generally, wait 1-3 months after delivery.

Khanh Hoa Sanest Bird’s Nest Drink 70 ml (from 1 year old)

8Frequently Asked Questions

8.1. Can Children with Fever Consume Bird’s Nest?

No. Fever is often accompanied by poor appetite, fatigue, reduced absorption, and increased detoxification.

8.2. Can Children with Cough Consume Bird’s Nest?

Yes. Bird’s nest can relieve coughs, clear phlegm, nourish the lungs, and boost respiratory immunity. It’s beneficial against air pollution-related illnesses.

8.3. Can Bird’s Nest be Consumed with Milk?

Yes. Children aged 1-10 still need fats and calcium from milk powder. Bird’s nest can be a supplementary nutrient. Give milk in moderation after consuming bird’s nest to avoid overfilling. Children aged 1-3 can consume blended bird’s nest with milk for easier introduction.

Blended bird’s nest can be consumed with Similac 5G No. 3 Milk Powder 900g (12-24 months)

9Where to Buy High-Quality Bird’s Nest

For safe and reliable products, consider AVAKids stores nationwide or online at avakids.com. We offer bird’s nest products from reputable brands in various flavors (e.g., Green Bird chia seed bird’s nest, Win’sNest cordyceps bird’s nest, Khanh Hoa bird’s nest) and age-specific formulations.

Bird’s nest is a nutrient-rich food. Choose products appropriate for your child’s age from reputable stores. Contact us at 1900.866.874 (8:00 – 21:30) for any questions.