Symptoms of excess oxalates

Fatigue: Feeling tired, weak, or lacking energy

Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

Pain: Joint pain, muscle pain, or abdominal pain

Irritability: Feeling anxious, restless, or irritable

Mood changes: Depression, anxiety, or mood swings

Digestive issues: Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or gas

Skin problems: Rashes, itching, or skin lesions

Urinary issues: Frequent urination, burning sensation while urinating, or kidney stones

Neurological symptoms: Headaches, migraines, or numbness/tingling in hands and feet

Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps

Respiratory symptoms: Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath

Eye problems: Blurred vision, eye pain, or sensitivity to light

Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid problems or adrenal fatigue

Autoimmune disorders: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other autoimmune conditions

Kidney stones: Recurring kidney stones or kidney damage

Bone problems: Osteoporosis, osteopenia, or bone pain

Growth and development problems: In children, delayed growth, or developmental delays

Oxalate vs calcium oxalate

Oxalate and calcium oxalate are two related compounds that play important roles in human health. While they share a common name, they have distinct differences in terms of their chemical structure, functions, and health implications.

Oxalate

Oxalate (C2O2−4) is a naturally occurring anion found in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. It is a byproduct of normal metabolic processes and is excreted in the urine. Oxalate is also used as a food additive and is found in some medications.

Calcium Oxalate

Calcium oxalate (CaC2O4) is a salt formed when calcium ions (Ca2+) combine with oxalate ions (C2O2−4). It is a common component of kidney stones, which are small, hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys. Calcium oxalate stones are the most common type of kidney stone, accounting for about 80% of all cases.

Key Differences

Chemical Structure: Oxalate is a simple anion, while calcium oxalate is a salt formed by the combination of calcium and oxalate ions.

Function: Oxalate is a normal byproduct of metabolism, while calcium oxalate is a key component of kidney stones.

Health Implications: High levels of oxalate in the urine can increase the risk of kidney stones, while calcium oxalate stones can cause severe pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Dietary Sources: Oxalate is found in many foods, including spinach, beets, and chocolate, while calcium oxalate is not typically consumed as a food additive.

In Conclusion

In summary, oxalate and calcium oxalate are two distinct compounds with different chemical structures, functions, and health implications. While oxalate is a normal byproduct of metabolism, calcium oxalate is a key component of kidney stones. Understanding the differences between these two compounds is essential for maintaining good health and preventing kidney stone formation.

Nuts oxalates

Oxalates are naturally occurring compounds found in many foods, including nuts. While a moderate intake of oxalates is generally considered safe, excessive consumption can lead to health issues, particularly for individuals with kidney stones or other kidney problems. Here’s a breakdown of the oxalate content in various nuts:

High-Oxalate Nuts:

Almonds: 1 cup of almonds contains approximately 275-300 mg of oxalate

Cashews: 1 cup of cashews contains approximately 250-275 mg of oxalate

Pistachios: 1 cup of pistachios contains approximately 200-225 mg of oxalate

Peanuts: 1 cup of peanuts contains approximately 150-175 mg of oxalate

Low-Oxalate Nuts:

Macadamia nuts: 1 cup of macadamia nuts contains approximately 50-75 mg of oxalate

Hazelnuts: 1 cup of hazelnuts contains approximately 50-75 mg of oxalate

Pecans: 1 cup of pecans contains approximately 25-50 mg of oxalate

Walnuts: 1 cup of walnuts contains approximately 25-50 mg of oxalate

Other Considerations:

Roasting or cooking nuts can increase their oxalate content.

Some nuts, like peanuts, are often processed with high-oxalate ingredients, which can increase their overall oxalate content.

If you have kidney stones or other kidney issues, it’s recommended to limit your oxalate intake or consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.