Alfalfa and Canavanine

Why was this article written?

There had been a concern raised about L-canavanine (an amino acid present in alfalfa seeds and sprouts) and vitamin E and their relationship to autoimmune disorders. The basis for these concerns appeared in a case study published in a journal. Alfalfa supplements, which are manufactured using mature alfalfa (and not seeds or sprouts) contain only miniscule amounts of canavanine. Vitamin E, also, has no relationship to autoimmune disorders.

Alfalfa, vitamin E, and autoimmune disorders.
Authors: Whittam J, Jensen C, Hudson T.
Am J Clin Nutr. 1995 Nov;62(5):1025-6. PubMed Citation PMID: 7572731.PDF Letter to editor: Am J Clin Nutr, 1995.