[Disorders appearing in animals ingesting Vicia faba L. beans].

The effect of feeding growing male rats and chickens on diets containing raw field bean (Vicia faba L.) as the main source of protein, on the rate of growth and muscle protein metabolism, has been investigated for more than ten years in this laboratory. In the present report we summarize some of the results we have obtained so far. The experimental animals showed, along with the classical reduction in the rate of growth, significant increases in several urinary parameters. These effects were accompanied by changes in the activity of enzymes associated with both aminoacids catabolism and intestinal digestion. Furthermore the role of tannins on the catabolic effect of this legume is discussed as well.