Oxalate Sensitivity
Healthy digestive systems can handle oxalates so that they pass through the digestive tract unabsorbed. However, people with digestive issues, such as leaky gut, are unable to handle oxalates, which can result in oxalate sensitivity.
What are oxalates?
The role of oxalates is to provide protection for plants against predators – everything from harmful bacteria to insects, animals, and even humans.
Have you ever noticed little seeds in the toilet bowl when you eat blueberries or strawberries? Seeds often contain oxalates that stop the body from being able to break them down. This allows them to pass through the digestive system unscathed and potentially propagate.
Oxalates are naturally-occurring chemicals that can be found in plant-based foods, including:
- Fruits– like blueberries, figs, lemons, oranges and strawberries
- Vegetables– like Brussel sprouts, green beans, potato, spinach and sweet potato
- Grains– specifically wheat-based products, like bread, cakes, and pasta
- Nuts, seeds and legumes– like almonds, cashews, peanuts and soybeans
- Condiments– like black pepper, cinnamon, parsley, teas and soy sauce
The human body can also synthesise oxalic acid from vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid), which, combined with calcium, iron, and other minerals can form oxalates.
Why do oxalates cause issues?
Healthy digestive systems can handle oxalates so that they pass through the digestive tract unabsorbed. However, people with digestive issues, such as leaky gut, are unable to handle oxalates, which can result in issues.
As a result, their body may store them in the joints (which may spark pain and inflammation), or excrete them in the form of crystals (which can sometimes lead to kidney stones). This can trigger oxalate sensitivity.
What are the symptoms of oxalate sensitivity?
Symptoms of oxalate sensitivity may include (1):
- joint inflammation
- fibromyalgia
- digestive problems
- skin rashes
- behavioural issues (including anxiety/depression and bed wetting)
- red, burning eyes
- chronic candida
Manage oxalate sensitivity naturally
At Health & Wellness Australia & Auckland (HWA), our Naturopaths use a form of muscle testing (kinesiology) to help pinpoint your individual substance triggers (like oxalates). Following this, we perform a natural allergy treatment called Positive Association Technique (PAT), which aims to reduce your reactions and symptoms.
PAT is a non-invasive holistic therapy, which:
- draws on acupressure and kinesiology techniques
- aims to re-train your body
- may reduce your reactions to food and environmental substances that may be causing or exacerbating your symptoms.
Some cases can be complex, so our Naturopaths may also recommend supplements and herbs, and provide lifestyle advice to help you achieve the best long-term results.
Get in touch
- Call us on 1300 853 023 / 09 479 5997 (NZ) to chat to our friendly staff
- Send our PAT Naturopaths a question HERE
- Request a Free PAT Information E-PACK HERE
Please note this blog is general information only, always consult your health care professional before making any diet or lifestyle changes.
