From the Research
Jaundice caused by mung bean consumption is extremely rare and not a recognized medical condition, and if someone develops jaundice after eating mung beans, they should seek immediate medical attention as the jaundice is likely due to another underlying cause. The most recent and highest quality study on the evaluation of jaundice in adults was published in 2025 1, which emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive medical history, review of systems, and physical examination to differentiate potential causes of jaundice. According to this study, initial laboratory evaluation should include assays for bilirubin, complete blood cell count, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase, albumin, prothrombin time, and international normalized ratio. Some key points to consider in the evaluation and treatment of jaundice include:
- Measuring fractionated bilirubin to determine whether the hyperbilirubinemia is conjugated or unconjugated
- Using ultrasonography, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography as first-line options for imaging, depending on the suspected underlying etiology
- Considering liver biopsy if the etiology of jaundice is unclear despite laboratory testing and imaging While there have been reports of Salmonella infections associated with mung bean sprouts 2, there is no established link between mung bean consumption and jaundice as a recognized medical condition. Therefore, treatment would depend on the actual cause of jaundice, which requires proper medical diagnosis through blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly liver function tests, as outlined in the 2025 study 1. It is essential to note that food sensitivities or allergic reactions to legumes typically manifest as digestive issues or skin reactions rather than liver dysfunction and jaundice, and if someone notices yellowing of the skin or eyes after consuming any food, they should discontinue eating that food immediately and consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment of the underlying condition causing the jaundice.