Bean Sprouts: Small but Mighty

Did you know that bean sprouts are out-of-this-world? They’re fast-growing on Earth and have even been proven to thrive in space. Around 3000 BCE, Chinese sailors discovered something remarkable: sprouting mung beans could help them survive long sea voyages. Why? Because those tiny green shoots were packed with vitamin C, just what they needed to fight off scurvy when fresh food was nowhere in sight. But it wasn’t just about survival – Chinese herbalists soon realized these sprouts were more than a quick fix. They were a powerful food with healing potential, used in traditional remedies to boost strength and vitality.

“Did you know that bean sprouts can be grown this way? First, soak soy or mung beans in warm water overnight, then drill a few holes in the bottom of the [recycled] jar and put in the soaked beans to fill the jar a quarter of the way. Then rinse with cool water and place in a cool place with a lid. Do the same procedure: rinse with water three times a day for four days. And the bean sprouts will fill the jar.” Let’s not forget sprouting doesn’t require a garden. Whether you live in a high-rise apartment or have just a sunny kitchen counter, sprouts fit into any lifestyle.

They’re especially great for your digestive system, packed with live enzymes that help break down food more efficiently, easing the workload on your stomach and supporting smoother, healthier digestion. Plus, their natural dietary fiber works like an internal broom – sweeping through your digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements, and helping to prevent issues like constipation. For those with allergies, bean sprouts might offer an unexpected benefit. They contain a range of naturally occurring enzymes, including diamine oxidase, which is known to help break down histamine in the body. By supporting the regulation of histamine levels, these little greens may contribute to easing allergic reactions and promoting overall immune balance.

How to identify different types of bean sprouts on the market? Another type of bean sprout available on the market is similar to the organic variety. Their roots are quite long, as you can see. While the roots are long, the stem will also be quite lengthy, but it won’t have secondary roots attached all around. In contrast, organic bean sprouts will have small roots attached all around.