It is thought that ancient Greeks/Italians used fava beans (raw) as an
anti-malarial because of the effects it has on red blood cells.  Raw fava
beans (and the plant) can cause serious problems (even death)in people
with the enzyme deficiency G6PD.  Has the child been screened for this?
How about thalassemia minor or an immune hemolytic anemia?  Hereditary
Spherocytosis?  You didn't mention what sex and race the baby is.  If the
baby is a white female it would rule out G6PD.  Chances are, that it
isn't the mother's diet.  I have "tons" of reference material, too bulky
to quote, but if you (or anyone else) are interested, I can scan & e-mail
or fax information.  E-mail me privately.

Kimberly Elms
Arizona State University
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