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Oxalates , also known as oxalic acid, are naturally occurring compounds found in plants and produced by the human body. These substances are primarily present in plant-based foods, with varying concentrations across various sources. Surprisingly, some of the highest oxalate foods are often considered among the healthiest options, including almonds, cashews, beets, greens, raspberries, soy products, and spinach. This revelation can be startling for many, as it challenges the common perception that these nutrient-rich foods are universally beneficial. The fact that these seemingly healthy options could potentially cause health issues for some individuals highlights the complexity of nutrition and the importance of personalized dietary approaches.
What Role Do Oxalates Play in Autism?
The exploration of oxalates in the context of autism reveals a complex interplay between dietary compounds and neurological health, suggesting that elevated oxalate levels may contribute to or exacerbate various symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), including oxidative stress, inflammation, and gastrointestinal issues.
The following data highlights the found connection between oxalates and ASD:
Urine levels
Children with ASD excrete significantly higher levels of oxalates in their urine compared to neurotypical children. Interestingly, 36% of ASD children had oxalate levels higher than 90 mmol/mol creatinine, a level usually found in people with certain genetic conditions that affect oxalate levels.
Additionally, 84% of the autistic children had oxalate levels that were outside the normal range. Importantly, none of the ASD children showed high levels of other substances usually associated with genetic problems related to oxalate metabolism. This suggests their high oxalate levels likely come from outside sources, such as diet.
Plasma levels
Children with ASD have been found to have plasma oxalate levels that are three times higher than neurotypical children. Specifically, the average plasma oxalate level of ASD children was measured at 5.60 μmol/L, while the reference level for typical children was only 1.84 μmol/L. This significant difference suggests a potential metabolic disturbance in children with ASD that may contribute to their condition.
This increased presence of oxalates may indicate underlying issues related to how the body processes these compounds.
Seizures
Approximately 22% to 30% of children with ASD experience seizures, which may be linked to neuroinflammation in the brain. Research suggests that oxalates, known to cause seizures and inflammation, could play a role in this connection. Given that oxalates can contribute to neuro-inflammatory processes, it is plausible that they may be a contributing factor to the occurrence of seizures in children with autism.
Sulfur and Poor Sulfation
Sulfur is vital for sulfation processes, which are often impaired in individuals with ASD. Research shows that ASD children frequently have abnormal sulfur amino acid metabolism; low sulfate levels can hinder these processes, making it difficult to metabolize various substances, including oxalates.
Mitochondria
Oxalates can harm mitochondria, leading to decreased mitochondrial function and increased oxidative stress, which have been linked to ASD; this suggests that elevated oxalate levels may contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction commonly observed in individuals with autism.
Antibiotics, Fungus, and Yeast Connection
Antibiotic use in children with ASD has been linked to increased levels of oxalates and yeast overgrowth, particularly from Candida albicans. Antibiotics disrupt the gut microbiome by killing harmful and beneficial bacteria, which can reduce beneficial bacteria that help break down oxalates. This disruption may result in higher oxalate absorption and accumulation in the body, contributing to gastrointestinal issues and other symptoms commonly seen in ASD.
Research indicates that children with ASD are more likely to experience yeast overgrowth, which can exacerbate symptoms such as hyperactivity and gastrointestinal distress. The presence of Candida can also correlate with elevated oxalate levels, as the metabolic byproducts of yeast may increase oxalate production. Therefore, addressing yeast overgrowth through antifungal treatments and managing dietary oxalate intake may be essential strategies for improving health outcomes in children with ASD.
Overall, these findings suggest that oxalates could play a role in ASD, warranting further investigation into their impact on the neurological and metabolic health of affected individuals.
Benefits Reported by Parents Using Low-Oxalate Diet
Many parents of children with ASD have reported significant benefits after implementing a low-oxalate diet. This dietary approach has been associated with improvements in symptoms such as anxiety, gastrointestinal problems, and sleep disturbances. These positive changes suggest that managing oxalate levels may enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
For instance, parents have observed:
- Better adaptive behaviors; daily living skills
- Better counting ability
- Better sleep
- Decreased rigidity
- Enhanced motor skills, both gross and fine motor skills
- Improved cognition
- Improved handwriting
- Improvement in anemia
- Improvements in expressive & receptive language and speaking in longer sentences
- Increased imitation skills
- Increased imaginary play
- Increased social skills
- Reduced self-abusive behavior
- Reduction in bedwetting and frequent urination
How to Limit Oxalate Intake and Absorption
Low-Oxalate Diet (LOD)
The low-oxalate diet limits foods high in oxalates with meals not surpassing 25 mg of oxalate per serving. Foods like spinach, dark chocolate, and almonds should be avoided or eaten in moderation. If you decide that LOD is right for you or your family, you should be aware of the effects of oxalate dumping. Gradually reducing intake is crucial when lowering oxalate levels.
Pro Tip: Managing oxalate intake is made easy with the Primally Nourished recipe database. Learn More
Vitamins
Vitamin B Deficiency: People who are deficient in vitamin B6 produce more significant amounts of oxalate than people who are not. B1 (thiamine) deficiency has also been implicated in the accumulation of oxalates.
So, methylated B vitamins should be included to help decrease the symptoms encountered when consuming oxalates with a vitamin B deficiency.
Increasing nutrients like vitamins E, B6 &12, biotin, and folate can assist in detoxification, including oxalate, which has already been formed. Additionally, consider glutathione levels, which are crucial for antioxidant defense, and consider supplementation if needed.
Calcium
Increased calcium intake can help reduce oxalate absorption and alleviate symptoms; combining calcium-rich foods with high-oxalate foods binds oxalates for excretion and consuming 300-400 mg of calcium per meal is recommended. It’s best to obtain calcium from food sources rather than supplements, as the latter can complicate regulation, and excess can potentially lead to kidney stones. While calcium supplementation can be beneficial, it should be used under supervision, especially for those prone to kidney stones..
Antifungal drugs
The use of antifungal drugs to reduce yeast and fungi that might be causing high oxalates is sometimes helpful. However, you would want to verify an overgrowth of yeast and work with a holistic healthcare professional trained in oxalate therapies.
Testing for Oxalates
Testing for oxalates is most conveniently conducted using the Organic Acids Test (OAT) from MosaicDX™. This test measures various metabolites, including oxalic acid, which indicates oxalate levels, and other compounds such as arabinose (a Candida indicator), glycolic acid (linked to Hyperoxaluria type I), and glyceric acid (associated with Hyperoxaluria type II). It also assesses levels of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and pyridoxic acid, reflecting vitamin B6 intake necessary for oxalate metabolism. Additionally, the OAT identifies markers for fungal infections and the presence of beneficial bacteria, providing a comprehensive metabolic snapshot that can inform dietary and therapeutic interventions for individuals with chronic conditions, including those related to ASD.
The Nourishing Hope for Healing Kids Program
Based on clinical research, the program emphasizes the connection between diet and symptoms such as hyperactivity, anxiety, and gastrointestinal issues. Participants receive step-by-step guidance on implementing therapeutic diets, addressing picky eating, and enhancing overall nutrition. The program includes live support, a community group, educational videos, and resources tailored to individual needs. Parents have reported significant improvements in their children’s behaviors and eating habits, making this program a valuable resource for families seeking dietary interventions for ASD.
Find a Practitioner
The BioIndividual Nutrition Practitioner Directory is a resource for individuals seeking qualified health professionals trained in personalized, bioindividual nutrition. Practitioners listed in the directory have completed advanced training programs and possess specialized knowledge in using diet and nutrition strategies to support health and healing.
Summary
The relationship between oxalates and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has garnered increasing attention, particularly regarding the impact of elevated oxalate levels on health and behavior in children with ASD. Research indicates that children with ASD have higher oxalate levels, often linked to gut dysbiosis and the overgrowth of Candida yeast, which can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues and behavioral symptoms. Some parents and practitioners have reported a low oxalate diet to improve various symptoms, including cognitive function, motor skills, and social behaviors.
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Sources
https://nourishinghope.com/oxalates-and-autism
https://mosaicdx.com/resource/oxalates-control-is-a-major-new-factor
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21911305
https://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/vegetarianism-and-plan
https://primallynourished.com/u/food-facts#food-intolerances_oxalates
