What consequence might consuming fava beans cause for individuals deficient in the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD)?

The triggering of favism, resulting in the destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis)

Fava beans possess a specific, though rare, interaction with human genetics that requires careful consideration. For those individuals who have a deficiency in the enzyme known as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), ingestion of fava beans can provoke a serious adverse reaction called favism. This condition is characterized by a pathological event where the body's red blood cells undergo rapid destruction, a process termed hemolysis. This highlights the importance of understanding one's genetic background before adopting significant dietary changes, as this specific incompatibility can lead to acute health crises despite the bean's general nutritional benefits for the rest of the population.