14. High Oxalate Foods: The Stealthy Kidney Stone Culprit
Oxalate is a naturally occurring compound found in many foods, and a diet high in oxalates can increase the risk of developing kidney stones. Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain, discomfort, and other symptoms when they pass through the urinary tract.
Some high oxalate foods include spinach, beets, chocolate, nuts, berries, tea, and soy products. Certain fruits, such as kiwi and figs, are also high in oxalates. While it’s important to limit your intake of these foods, it’s still possible to include them in your diet in moderation.
People who are prone to developing kidney stones may need to be particularly careful about their oxalate intake. If you have a history of kidney stones, it’s best to speak with a doctor or a registered dietitian to determine an appropriate oxalate intake for you.
In general, it’s important to eat a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drinking plenty of water can also help prevent kidney stones by flushing out any excess oxalates in the body.
It’s also important to remember that everyone’s individual tolerance for oxalates can vary, and some people may be able to eat high oxalate foods without any problems, while others may need to limit their intake. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as pain in your side or back, frequent urination, or cloudy urine, it’s best to speak with a doctor to determine the cause and determine the best course of treatment.
A diet high in oxalates can increase the risk of developing kidney stones, but it’s still possible to include high oxalate foods in your diet in moderation. It’s important to speak with a doctor or a registered dietitian if you have a history of kidney stones, and to eat a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water to help prevent kidney stones from forming. (14)
