Moong Dal Benefits: Does mung bean contain vitamin B12? This powerful lentil cleanses the intestines, so eat it this winter

Mung beans increase vitamin B12. Whether this is just a myth or a fact remains controversial. Many videos go viral on social media claiming that mung beans are the best food for vegetarians because they help alleviate the essential vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the formation and maintenance of red blood cells. 

A deficiency can even affect the nervous system. Vitamin B12 is produced in the liver, a vital organ in our body. It's said that people with poor digestion or frequent gastric problems have lower levels of B12. It's said that this deficiency is more prevalent in vegetarians.

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Therefore, there is a myth that eating mung beans is the best way to get B12. TV9 Bharatvarsh spoke exclusively with senior dietitian Geetika Chopra about this. 

She explained the role of mung beans in B12 absorption, the best foods to eat for B12, and how to best consume the superfood mung beans in winter.

Moong dal for Vitamin B12

Dietitian Geetika Chopra says that mung beans don't directly provide vitamin B12, as they are only available from animal-based foods like milk, yogurt, cheese, eggs, and meat. 

Experts say that mung beans and other pulses don't contain B12. However, mung beans have the advantage of strengthening the gut. When the gut lining heals through lentils, digestion improves. This allows the body to better absorb B12 from dairy products or eggs.

Experts say that while mung beans aren't a direct source of B12, they do help with the absorption of this vitamin. For those with poor digestion or those who suffer from bloating, gas, and acidity, this lentil is a boon.

Benefits of Moong Dal in Winters

Moong dal is rich in fiber, making it extremely beneficial for the stomach. However, due to its cold nature, some people avoid eating it in winter. Expert Geetika Chopra suggests that you can consume it with winter foods. 

The body naturally digests moong dal better in winter, so consuming it in warm and simple dishes is most beneficial. A spoonful of ghee in moong dal khichdi is an excellent combination in winter. It keeps the body warm and smooths the gut, reducing bloating.

Experts say you can make mung dal soup in winter. Adding ginger, garlic, and black pepper boosts immunity and provides protection against coughs during winter. Alternatively, you can make mung dal cheela and stuff it with paneer. 

This is an all-time favorite breakfast. You can also make a salad with the sprouts and add vegetables and lemon. This combination improves both gut health and metabolism.

Dr. Geetika says that if you have winter cravings, you can also eat moong dal halwa, but only once or twice a month. Portions of halwa should be controlled, and jaggery should be used instead of sugar. 

While moong dal doesn't increase B12, it is a valuable food for winter nutrition, gut health, and improved digestion. Expert Geetika says that B12 deficiency can only be addressed through dairy products, eggs, or meat. At best, you can take supplements as prescribed by your doctor.