Today, I am blessed to have Sally K. Norton here with me. Her book, “Toxic Superfoods: How Oxalate Overload is Making You Sick-and How to Get Better” is available everywhere books are sold. Her latest book, the Data Companion to Toxic Superfoods, was just released in May 2024 and is available at https://sallyknorton.com/toxic_superfoods/data_companion. For more information, visit SallyKNorton.com or follow Sally on YouTube and social media. She’s @sknorton and @toxicsuperfoods_oxalate_book (on Instagram), @BeFreeToThrive (on Facebook), and @BetterLowOx (on X).

In this episode, Sally emphasizes that several foods commonly considered healthy, such as nuts, dark leafy greens, sweet potatoes, quinoa, and even bran, may actually be harmful due to their high oxalate content. Oxalates, particularly oxalic acid found in plants, can disrupt cellular function by causing oxidative stress, inflammation, and damage to tissues. The accumulation of calcium oxalate can interfere with metabolism, vascular health, and electrolyte balance, leading to various health issues like digestive problems, joint pain, urinary tract infections, and kidney stones. Sally also explains that our modern, non-seasonal diet exacerbates this issue, as we consume these foods year-round without giving our bodies time to recover.

Sally says that tea significantly contributes to oxalate intake due to its fully soluble oxalic acid content, making it both quickly absorbed and harmful. However, Sally mentions that in moderation, tea can be used medicinally to help the body manage oxalate release from tissues. She advises that dietary changes should be gradual, allowing the body time to adjust to avoid overwhelming it. She emphasizes that dealing with oxalate accumulation is a long-term process influenced by individual nutrition and lifestyle factors.

Sally advises that low oxalate carbs, such as white rice, are generally well-tolerated, especially for those with gut inflammation. She notes that white rice has resistant starch, which may be problematic for those with severe digestive issues. Cutting out fiber can also reduce pain and inflammation, making a carnivore diet appealing to some. Sally also highlights that juicing fruits, especially those high in oxalates like raspberries and pomegranates, can significantly reduce their oxalate content. She recommends eating nutrient-dense animal foods, taking breaks from constant grazing, and returning to traditional meal times for metabolic freedom.

Resources from this episode: 

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