Final answer:
Individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency should not eat fava beans due to the risk of hemolytic anemia caused by oxidants in the beans.
Step-by-step explanation:
Individuals with a deficiency in the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) should avoid consuming fava beans. G6PD deficiency is an X-linked recessive hereditary disease, which is the most common enzyme deficiency in humans. This condition can result in nonimmune hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells break down prematurely.
Fava beans contain high levels of substances such as vicine, divicine, convicine, and isouramil, which are oxidants. Those with G6PD deficiency have red blood cells that are more vulnerable to oxidative damage due to the reduced ability to produce NADPH, a cofactor that helps to maintain the level of glutathione, which in turn protects red blood cells.
Avoiding fava beans and certain medications is crucial for individuals with G6PD deficiency to prevent triggering hemolysis, where damaged red blood cells can lead to serious health issues such as jaundice.