Beware of Alfalfa Sprouts: Link to Autoimmune Diseases Revealed

Q: Beware of Alfalfa Sprouts: Link to Autoimmune Diseases Revealed

Hello： In response to your question, the earliest report regarding alfalfa triggering symptoms similar to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was published in 1982. <br>In this study, three out of five female macaques that consumed large amounts of alfalfa seeds developed blood ch

The toxic components of alfalfa sprouts can trigger autoimmune diseases?

I received an email that has made me very anxious about its authenticity, especially since my family consumes alfalfa sprouts daily.
However, I remain skeptical about the rumors circulating online, so I will continue eating them until I get a definitive answer.
To avoid any premature health issues, I would appreciate a prompt response.
Thank you! This article is indeed true! Previously, when I visited the Immunology and Rheumatology department at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, the doctor advised me against consuming alfalfa sprouts.
Additionally, it's worth noting that celery, which is widely regarded as a healthy vegetable, can also trigger systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), similar to alfalfa sprouts.
In the past, I frequently consumed both of these foods for my health, but later tests showed elevated SLE markers in my blood (though I had not yet developed the disease).
After completely eliminating these two foods from my diet, I had a follow-up blood test about six months later, and the SLE markers had completely disappeared—quite strange, isn't it? The doctor informed me that there are formal medical reports documenting the issues caused by alfalfa sprouts and celery.
So, everyone should be cautious about what they eat! When I visited the Veterans General Hospital (Immunology and Rheumatology), the doctor reiterated this advice to me! Therefore, I have stopped eating alfalfa sprouts.
The toxic components in alfalfa sprouts can trigger autoimmune diseases.
Alfalfa sprouts are highly praised among vegetarians, and some health writers believe that consuming raw alfalfa sprouts can detoxify the body.
Alfalfa is often touted as a low-calorie, high-fiber health food.
Health food stores sell alfalfa seeds, and popular health books have sung its praises.
The health information about alfalfa first spread in the United States and only reached Taiwan over a decade later.
The primary therapeutic effect of alfalfa in monkeys is the gradual reduction of existing atherosclerotic plaques, and it can also lower total cholesterol and bad cholesterol levels in humans.
Therefore, the main benefit of alfalfa is in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.
However, alfalfa contains saponins (a type of phytochemical) that can dissolve red blood cells and hinder the body's utilization of vitamin E.
Alfalfa also contains a naturally occurring toxic component known as L-canavanine, which is a toxic basic amino acid.
Its primary toxicity promotes autoimmune diseases in mammals, causing the immune system to lose its regulatory function and mistakenly identify the body's own cells as antigens, producing antibodies that destroy these antigens.
This leads to autoimmune diseases where the immune system damages its own body.
The main autoimmune disease caused by this toxicity is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Evidence shows that alfalfa can induce disease in monkeys and worsen the condition of SLE patients.
Excessive consumption of alfalfa can also damage various blood cell types in humans, reducing their counts; fortunately, blood cell counts can recover after ceasing consumption.
Both alfalfa seeds and sprouts contain this toxic component, and the concentration is quite high, accounting for about 1.5% of the weight of dry seeds or sprouts.
It appears that healthy individuals should avoid using alfalfa for the prevention of atherosclerosis, and patients with systemic lupus erythematosus should strictly avoid alfalfa sprouts.
First-degree relatives of these patients should also refrain from consuming alfalfa, as this condition has a hereditary component, and first-degree relatives have the highest incidence rate, making them more susceptible to developing the disease after consuming alfalfa.
There are many fruits and vegetables that can lower cholesterol; there is no reason to blindly follow the trend of favoring alfalfa sprouts or alfalfa health supplements.
~This column is exclusively provided and authorized by Huashi Cultural Company for production by Tatung Company; please respect intellectual property rights.~

zoy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/11/27

Dr. Chen Yiying reply Dermatology

Hello: In response to your question, the earliest report regarding alfalfa triggering symptoms similar to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was published in 1982.
In this study, three out of five female macaques that consumed large amounts of alfalfa seeds developed blood changes resembling human lupus five months later, with one of them also exhibiting pathological changes similar to lupus in skin and kidney biopsy samples.
While similar experiments cannot be conducted on humans, there are case reports indicating that lupus patients experienced worsening symptoms after consuming alfalfa.
The non-protein amino acid L-canavanine is believed to be a substance that may induce these phenomena.
For healthy individuals, consuming any food in moderation and balance should not pose serious health risks.
Although the potential for alfalfa to trigger lupus has not been confirmed through large-scale studies, patients with autoimmune diseases are still advised to avoid alfalfa consumption.

Reply Date: 2003/11/27

More Info

The concerns regarding alfalfa sprouts and their potential link to autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), have been a topic of discussion among health professionals and researchers. Alfalfa sprouts, which are often touted for their health benefits, contain certain compounds that may pose risks, especially for individuals predisposed to autoimmune conditions.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) contains an amino acid called L-canavanine, which has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects. This compound can interfere with normal immune function and has been implicated in the exacerbation of autoimmune diseases. In particular, studies have suggested that L-canavanine can induce symptoms similar to those seen in lupus in animal models, and there is anecdotal evidence that it may worsen conditions in individuals already diagnosed with lupus.

The mechanism by which L-canavanine affects the immune system is believed to involve the alteration of immune cell function. It can lead to the production of autoantibodies, which are antibodies that mistakenly target and attack the body's own tissues. This autoimmune response is characteristic of diseases like lupus, where the immune system becomes dysregulated and begins to attack various organs and systems in the body.

It is also important to note that alfalfa sprouts are often consumed raw, which can increase the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens, including bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. This risk is particularly concerning for individuals with compromised immune systems, including those with autoimmune diseases, as their ability to fight infections is already diminished.

Given these factors, it is advisable for individuals with a history of autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, to exercise caution when consuming alfalfa sprouts. While they may be a nutritious addition to the diet for many, those with autoimmune conditions should consult with their healthcare provider to assess the risks and benefits based on their specific health status.

In summary, while alfalfa sprouts are generally considered healthy, their potential link to autoimmune diseases, particularly due to the presence of L-canavanine, warrants careful consideration. If you or someone in your family has a history of autoimmune diseases, it may be prudent to avoid alfalfa sprouts and discuss dietary choices with a healthcare professional. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in a variety of vegetables and fruits can provide the necessary nutrients without the associated risks of specific foods like alfalfa sprouts. Always prioritize safety and informed choices when it comes to dietary habits, especially in the context of autoimmune health.

Similar Q&A

Dietary Restrictions and Daily Tips for Living with Lupus

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) should avoid certain foods and be mindful of daily living practices. Here are some recommendations: 1. Foods to Avoid: - Processed Foods: High in preservatives and additives that may trigger inflammation. - High-So...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Hello: Systemic lupus erythematosus is a bone marrow autoimmune disease that requires a regular lifestyle and a balanced diet. There are no specific food restrictions. However, due to its nature as an autoimmune disease, individuals who are prone to allergies should limit their i...

What Type of Food is Alfalfa and Its Purine Content?

Alfalfa is classified as a legume. Regarding alfalfa sprouts, they contain approximately 0.2 mg of purines per 100 grams.

Dr. Zhuang Yizhen reply Nutrition
Danny: Hello! Alfalfa belongs to the vegetable category. As for the purine content per 100 grams, the current purine content table provided by the Department of Health does not include this information, so I apologize for not being able to answer your question definitively! Howev...

Is Lupus an Allergy-Related Autoimmune Disease? Exploring Dietary Impact

Hello Dr. Huang, I have recently been reading this book: <a href="http://www.books.com.tw/exep/prod<br />/booksfile.php?item=F010469400">The McDougall Program</a>. The author mentions on page 300 that autoimmune diseases are considered a type of allerg...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
Hello: The allergens in autoimmune diseases are your own cells or tissues, while what we generally refer to as allergic diseases pertains to external allergens, not autoimmune diseases. You cannot remove the allergens of autoimmune diseases because they are part of your body. How...

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Connection to Autoimmune Antibodies

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you: 1. I have been experiencing knee joint pain for a while (but there is no redness or swelling). It hurts when I am at rest, and sometimes other bones in my lower body also ache slightly. I am wondering if this could be an early symptom of r...

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I have been experiencing knee joint pain for a while (but without redness or swelling). It hurts when I am not moving, and sometimes other bones in my lower body also ache slightly. I am unsure if this is an early sy...