Health benefits of Green Gram (mung beans) & Its side effects

In recent years, there has been a surge in interest surrounding the health benefits of various legumes. One such legume that has gained significant attention is the green gram, also known as mung beans. Originating from Asia, green gram has been a staple in traditional diets for centuries.

Packed with essential nutrients and powerful antioxidants, green gram offers an array of health benefits that make it a valuable addition to any balanced diet. In this article, we will explore the numerous health benefits associated with consuming green gram.

Facts about Green Grams

Green Grams, (also known as Mung Beans or Moong) are small oval-shaped green beans that belong to the legume family. Its scientific name is Vigna Radiata. These green-colored beans are slightly sweeter.

 In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, green gram is considered a valuable food due to its balancing and healing properties. It is believed to have a cooling effect on the body and is often recommended for detoxification, promoting digestion, and reducing inflammation.

Native to India, these mung beans also spread to southeast Asia later.  It is widely used as a lentil in but also carries key medicinal importance. It is believed to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties. It has been used to treat ailments such as inflammation, urinary tract infections, and skin conditions.

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Green gram cultivation has several environmental benefits. It is a nitrogen-fixing crop, meaning it has the ability to convert nitrogen from the air into a form that can be used by plants, thereby reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. It also helps improve soil health and prevents soil erosion.

Below are listed some health benefits of Green Gram.

• High Nutritional Value: Green Grams contain important vitamins, proteins, minerals, and fiber. It is an excellent source of protein, fiber, folate, manganese, magnesium, and vitamins B1, B2, and B6. Consuming green grams regularly can help promote overall health and provide the body with the necessary nutrients for optimal functioning.

• Good source of Antioxidants: Green gram contains a range of antioxidants, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and vitexin. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. By fighting against cellular damage, green gram may contribute to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. Also read a bit about butter fruit benefits as well here.

• Helps in Weight Loss: Being rich in fibers and other beneficial nutrients, green grams serve as a perfect dietary food element for people wanting to lose some kilograms. It helps in overall digestion, reduces appetite, and lessens calorie intake assisting in weight loss and fighting obesity. Additionally, green gram has a low glycemic index, which means it releases energy slowly, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels and helping to control cravings.

• Boosts Immunity: The Green Gram has a lot of nutritional value which increases the production of White Blood Cells in the body. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties boost the body’s defense mechanism and keep germs and infections away.

• Reduces Blood Pressure: Green Gram is a good source of magnesium, potassium, and fiber. The magnesium present in these lowers hypertension and keeps the blood pressure levels in an adult body under control.

• Keeps Cholesterol level in check: Green Grams keep the blood vessels clear and improve blood circulation in the body. It has certain properties that help in reducing bad cholesterol levels in the body.

• Maintains a healthy digestive system: Green Grams also contain soluble fibers and starch consumption which can help in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Also, compared to other legumes, mung beans are less likely to cause any stomach disorders. If you are feeling a headache and want to take any medicine to get rid of headache, we have listed here some of the best tablet for headache in india that you can choose as per your convenience and take accordingly. You may also consult with your doctor as well.

• Reduces Blood Sugar level: Other than fibers, Green Grams are also a good source of proteins, antioxidants, and other properties, all of which combined helps in lowering the blood sugar level and keeping it in control. The combination of a fiber, protein and a low glycemic index helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevent sudden spikes or crashes.

• Improves Skin Health: Green Gram adds radiance and shine to the skin. Copper present in it boosts its properties when used as a face scrub, face pack, and face cream. Exfoliation using mung beans is very efficient to achieve an instant glow on your skin. It also contains Vitamin C, which plays a vital role in collagen synthesis, aiding in maintaining skin elasticity and early signs of ageing.

• Decrease in PMS symptoms: Green Grams contain necessary vitamins and magnesium which help in regulating the hormonal levels in the body, thus decreasing the PMS symptoms.

• Other Benefits: Alongside all the above-mentioned benefits, it also has some anti-toxic benefits to put to use. Consumption of green grams helps in keeping your body free of toxins. This improves the circulatory health of the body. All the bad toxins are flushed out of the body avoiding long-lasting diseases like ulcers and cancer.

But, as beneficial as it is to the human body, Green Grams do have some minor side effects that need to be addressed. 

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Green Grams Side Effects

Green Grams or Mung Beans don’t trigger any major side effects on human health. However, the presence of oxalates (naturally found in animals, humans, and plants) can lead to some health complications. Thus, it is advised that people having kidney disorders and gall bladder disorders must avoid the consumption of green grams.

However, some of the side effects that include are: 

• Flatulence: It contains complex carbohydrates which can be sometimes difficult to digest for some individuals. Soaking green gram overnight before cooking or consuming it with digestive aids like ginger or cumin can help reduce this side effect.
• Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions can manifest as itching, swelling, hives or difficulty in breathing If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming green gram, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately. 
• Gout: High levels of uric acid can contribute to gout, a form of arthritis. Individuals with a history of gout or those who are prone to high levels of uric acid should consume green gram in moderation.
• Interferences with medications: If you are taking any medications, especially blood thinners or medications for diabetes, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before significantly increasing your consumption of green grams.
• Goitrogenic effects: Green gram, like other legumes, contains goitrogens, which are substances that can interfere with thyroid function. However, the goitrogenic effects are generally mild and unlikely to cause significant problems unless consumed excessively and in combination with an iodine-deficient diet.

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Additionally, oxalates present also hamper the absorption of calcium in the human body. Thus it is also advised that people with calcium deficiency must avoid eating mung beans. Also, people with poor digestive health must consume less amount of mung beans can raw husks can cause stomach disorders, vomiting, and diarrhea. One must always chew their food properly so that this can be avoided. 

CONCLUSION

Consuming green gram, also known as mung bean, can have several health benefits due to its nutritional profile. However, it’s worth noting that individual results may vary, and it’s always advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have any specific health concerns or conditions. 

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