Low Oxalates Foods May Help Reduce Auto-Immune Disease Risk, Autism and Fibromyalgia

By Tucson Functional Medicine on April 25, 2021 • 0 Comments

Oxalate (or oxalic acid) is a compound found in a variety of plant-based foods. Under a microscope, oxalates are jagged in structure and look somewhat crystalline.

During metabolism, oxalic acid combines with other minerals like calcium, sodium, magnesium, and potassium to form compounds like calcium oxalate and sodium oxalate in the kidneys, which may also be responsible for mineral deficiencies.

One of the most common issues with increased oxalates in the urine (hyperoxaluria) is kidney stones. However, if the body struggles to eliminate oxalate, it can accumulate as crystals anywhere in the body. Commonly it gets in the blood, then the eyes, bones, skin, muscles, blood vessels, heart, and other organs.

High oxalates are linked with autism and inflammatory bowel disease. It can also be an underlying issue in those with ongoing gut problems or irritable bowel syndrome.

Tissue destruction, fibromyalgia, and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are all issues that can be related to oxalates because oxalate in tissues triggers the inflammasome reactions of the body’s innate immune system.

As a side note, the thyroid will also suffer as oxalates can bind to T3 and disturb thyroid function.

The following list of vegetables should help identify foods high in oxalates.

As you can see from the list above, your favorite spinach (> 900 mg of oxalates) green smoothie may be contributing to a host of health issues!

Low oxalate diets involve eating fewer foods that are high in oxalates. Foods high in oxalates include certain types of fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, and legumes.

On a low oxalate diet, you should limit your oxalate to 40 to 50 mg each day.

Summary

Whether for kidney stone prevention or to address other possible chronic health conditions, a low oxalate diet may be the solution.

On a low oxalate diet, you may notice a decreased risk of kidney stones, improved mineral absorption, diminished joint and muscle pain, improvement in fibromyalgia, autism symptoms, and reduction of autoimmune symptoms.

With the OAT (Organic Acid Test) we can look at the levels of oxalate in your urine

If you are interested in your levels of Oxalates, call Tucson Functional Medicine Clinic, and we will get you set up for the OAT Test. The test kit can be sent to your home and taken at your convenience. The results are reviewed, and a report is written by Dr. T reviewing your specific results.

520-445-6784

Or send an email

drt@tucsonfunctionalmedicine.fixed-staging.co.uk