Can Spinach Worsen Menopause Symptoms?

Today, we're diving into the unexpected connection between vulvodynia, kidney issues, bone health, breast cancer, and... wait for it... spinach!

Yes, you heard that right. Our beloved leafy green might have a dark side.

So, grab your favourite low-oxalate beverage, and let's explore this fascinating topic!

The Spinach Conundrum

Now, I've always been a fan of Popeye, but it turns out his favourite food might not be the superhero we thought it was. The culprit? Oxalates.

These tiny troublemakers are naturally occurring compounds found in many plant-based foods, with spinach being one of the highest sources.

Oxalates are like the party crashers of the nutrient world. They bind to minerals in our digestive tract, potentially causing a host of health issues. But here's the kicker: a half-cup of cooked spinach contains a whopping 450g of oxalates! To put that in perspective, we should aim for only between 150mg to 200mg per day. Talk about overachieving greens! A diet over 600mg a day is considered extremely high.

The Oxalate-Health Connection

So, how do these sneaky compounds relate to vulvodynia, kidney issues, bone health, and breast cancer? Let's break it down:

Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia, that pesky chronic pain condition affecting the vulvar area, has been linked to high oxalate levels in some studies. While the exact mechanism isn't fully understood, some researchers believe that oxalate crystals might irritate sensitive tissues, contributing to pain and discomfort.

Kidney Issues

This is where oxalates really shine (in the worst way possible). High oxalate levels in the body can lead to the formation of kidney stones. These painful crystals are often made of calcium oxalate; passing them is no walk in the park!

Bone Health

Here's where things get interesting. Oxalates love to bind with calcium, and not in a romantic way. This binding can prevent calcium absorption, potentially leading to weakened bones over time. So, while spinach is high in calcium, its oxalate content might be sabotaging its bone-building potential!

Breast Cancer

Now, this connection is still being researched, but some studies have found a potential link between high oxalate levels and breast cancer. One study showed that injecting oxalates into the mammary fat pad of mice favoured the growth of breast tumours. While more research is needed, it's certainly food for thought.

To Eat or Not to Eat?

Now, before you swear off spinach forever, let's take a deep breath. Spinach is still packed with nutrients, and for many people, its benefits outweigh the risks.

However, if you're dealing with any of the health issues we've discussed, you might want to consider moderating your intake or avoiding it for a short while will you find the root cause.

If you're not ready to bid farewell to spinach, here are some tips for reducing oxalate content. 

1. Boiling can reduce oxalate content by up to 87%.
2. Combine high-oxalate foods with calcium-rich ones. It's like setting up your oxalates on a blind date with calcium - they'll stick together and leave your body!
3. Mix up your greens. Lettuce, rocket, and watercress are lower in oxalates and can be delicious alternatives.

If you're curious about your oxalate levels, I recommend The Organic Acid Test(OAT). This urine test can give you a snapshot of your oxalate levels.

It not only measured my oxalate levels but also provided a comprehensive picture of my gut health, including:

1. Oxalate metabolites
2. Fungal and bacterial markers
3. Nutritional deficiencies
4. Detoxification capacity

The Gut-Oxalate Connection

Now, you might be wondering, what on earth does my gut have to do with oxalates?" let me tell you - everything!

You see, our gut microbiome plays a crucial role in managing oxalate levels. Some beneficial bacteria, like our friend Oxalobacter formigenes, actually feed on oxalates, helping to keep levels in check. But when our gut health is compromised, these helpful bacteria can be in short supply.

 If you're dealing with mysterious health issues, especially ones that might be related to oxalates (think kidney stones, chronic pain, fatigue, or recurring nutrient deficiencies), I highly recommend considering a comprehensive gut test like the OAT and Stool testing to get to the root cause.