Mung Beans Overview
Mung beans are small green legumes providing complete protein with high digestibility, exceptional folate content for cellular health, and resistant starch that feeds beneficial gut bacteria while supporting blood sugar control.
Why Mung Beans Helps With Muscle Building
Building muscle requires more than just lifting weights—nutrition plays an equally crucial role. The right foods provide the protein for muscle synthesis, carbohydrates for energy, and micronutrients for recovery and hormone optimization.
Mung Beans Nutrition Facts
Per 202g (1 cup (202g) cooked mung beans)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 212 | — |
| Protein | 14.2g | 28% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38.7g | 14% |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.4g | 55% |
| Sugar | g | — |
| Total Fat | g | 0% |
| iron | 2.8mg | 16% |
| magnesium | 97mg | 23% |
| potassium | 537mg | 11% |
| zinc | 1.7mg | 15% |
| folate | 321µg | 80% |
GI: 25 ()
Key Nutrients in Mung Beans for Muscle Building
Protein
14.2gSupports muscle building by providing essential protein
Zinc
1.7mgSupports muscle building by providing essential zinc
Best Ways to Eat Mung Beans for Muscle Building
- Cook dried mung beans until tender for curries, soups, or dal (30-45 minutes)
- Sprout mung beans for 3-5 days and eat raw in salads or stir-fries
- Use mung bean flour (moong dal flour) for gluten-free crepes or pancakes
- Make mung bean pasta as high-protein, grain-free alternative
Pro Tip:
For optimal muscle growth, aim for a moderate calorie surplus of 300-500 calories above maintenance. This supports muscle synthesis while minimizing excess fat gain.
Mung Beans Health Benefits
- High protein (14g per cup) with all essential amino acids and easy digestibility
- Exceptional folate content (321µg per cup = 80% DV) supports cell division and pregnancy
- Low glycemic index (25) and resistant starch support stable blood sugar
- Rich in magnesium (97mg per cup), potassium (537mg), and iron (2.8mg)
Important Considerations
- May cause gas or bloating in some people—start with small amounts and increase gradually
- Sprouting mung beans at home carries risk of bacterial contamination—ensure clean equipment
- High in fiber (15g per cup cooked)—increase water intake to prevent constipation
- Contains lectins which may cause digestive issues—cooking eliminates concern
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