Natural Toxins in Beans are No Cause for Alarm

People have been alarmed by articles alleging that alfalfa and other sprouts contain toxins. This news has struck fear in vegetarians and others because sprouts have always been considered "health food." Most of us have heard this news from the very popular author and proponent of natural healing, Andrew Weil. When questioned for more detail, Dr.Weil refers us to well know toxicologist Bruce Ames. Ames has written extensively on plant toxins. In a recent telephone interview, Dr. Ames claimed that he is not against sprouts. "Eat any sprouts you want..." he said. "There is nothing wrong with sprouts... If I was to be against sprouts then I would be against every kind of vegetation."