What has oxalic acid in it?

Ah, oxalic acid. How you bring back memories of my college chemistry days – where the only thing I was concerned with was getting high marks and trying not to kill myself with any dangerous chemicals! But we’re not here to talk about me and my questionable past (or present), we’re here to explore the wonderful world of oxalic acid.

But what even is oxalic acid, you ask? Well, it’s a naturally occurring compound found in many different types of plants and vegetables. It might sound toxic at first glance, but it’s perfectly safe when consumed in moderation. In fact, some studies suggest that moderate consumption carries overall health benefits.

So now that we’ve got our heads around exactly what this mysterious compound is let’s dive headfirst into finding out which things contain oxalic acid!

Spinach

First up: spinach! This leafy green superfood may just be one of your all-time favourites especially if you were raised by “famous sailor-man” Popeye. But did you know that spinach contains oxalates, another term for oxalic acid? The amount isn’t necessarily harmful unless large amounts are consumed on a regular basis or if there are pre-existing sensitivities such as kidney problems.

The same goes for other related greens like beetroot leaves which taste amazing either sautéed or raw tossed into a salad along with fruits making an ideal duo – bringing us to fruit salads…

Rhubarb

This tart vegetable-another possible favourite ingredient-should never be eaten raw as its stems contain high levels of poisonous compounds called anthraquinone glycosides according to Livestrong.com contributor Jodi Thornton-O’Connell. Once cooked however they become much more palatable especially when added together with strawberries hence strawberry-rhubarb pies; so delicious!.

Unlike the previous two items on our list, Rhubarb contains unusually high amounts of oxalic acid. It’s said you should limit consumption to around two cups per serving – which seems like plenty anyway as it can be difficult for most people to stomach a whole lot more than that at once. Oxalates can cause some tummy troubles if consumed in excess so keep desserts portioned.

Swiss Chard

Swiss chard not only sounds fancy but packs a nutritional punch and is also delicious when prepared right. However, just like spinach and beet greens, they contain the compound we all know (and maybe love?) oxalic acid content within relatively small levels.

If there’s one main takeaway from this article let it be: don’t let the presence of oxalic acid stop you from enjoying your leafy greens! Just eat them in moderation and get those nutrients into your body where they belong!

On cheat days however gram calorie counting disappears along with monitoring carb intake – after all life is too short & deserves enjoyment measured by smiles rather than digits ☺ . That brings us right to chocolate heaven…

Chocolate

Yes my fellow chocolate lovers, even our beloved sweet treat has oxalic acid lurking inside its heavenly depths! But before any panic sets off there’s no need to swear off dark chocolates altogether- it contains fiber & antioxidants as well making it even more irresistible.

A recent study suggested cacao might provide better cognitive training outcomes though researchers are still exploring this area further since cutbacks were made on such tests owing largely due pandemic. Add some nuts or fruit for an extra flavour kick while the kids` palate equally learns flavor contrast but cutting down sugar concentration 💡 .

Different forms may vary however; darker chocolates tend to have higher levels whereas milk chocolate has significantly lower amounts-perhaps next time order that premium package 😅

Kidney Beans & Soy

Continuing with our collection of high-oxalate foods, let’s take a look at the legume world. Kidney beans and soy products have been known to contain relatively large levels of oxalic acid when combined with other food items.

One interesting thing about these two? Roasting them can actually reduce overall oxalate levels because it changes the pH balance in your digestive system – you know science is involved if there are mentions of pH balances 😌 .

Nuts

Nuts are an incredible source of protein, vitamins and generally packed full of healthy fats that do wonders for our bodies. But just like anything in life (insert ‘moderation’ here) too many nuts too often will contribute more not-so-healthy effects especially those containing higher concentrations than normal amount such as almonds and cashews. These should usually be eaten in moderation!

On lower end however comes pistachios having only 80mg/100g; making them a great choice thanks to their versatility for both savoury & sweet dishes 🍴 adding texture atop or grounding into powerful dips such as pesto.

Amaranth / Buckwheat

While gluten-free lifestyle heads probably know these already but did you ever associate buckwheat pancakes—AKA Japanese ‘sobakoh’ — along with its various forms and amaranth biscuits etcetera method as sources which can satisfy daily micronutrients consumption while being consumed ?They happen to come equipped oxalic acid-low/good amounts at that!

But even plant-based diets have oxalic acid wherever spinach plays major roles involvement e.g green smoothies or nutri-bowls so what gives?

Well seems like everything gives sometime ☘️; guess it’s time we all start treating ourselves like royalty by educating self on how much goes down per serving. Knowledge is bliss indeed (or sometimes scary) lol.

Of course, oxalic acid isn’t all bad – it has a host of health benefits when consumed in moderation. Just make sure you’re aware of what is really there in your food plate.

Conclusion

So there you have it: the who’s who and what’s in of everything oxalic acid! From spinach to rhubarb, chocolate to nuts – even those legumes we use regularly for our favourite curry dishes; no matter where you turn, you can’t escape this little molecule!

But don’t be too scared off by these findings if eaten with care but maintaining a balance; they’ll all add some extra flavor, vitamins or useful life hacks such as roasting beans amongst other delights whilst benefitting overall wellbeing simultaneously 💪🏼 . By now however the human desire for comfort present from beginning still stands- good sleep, exercise & humor alleviates any afterthoughts or restricted diets – unless ordered strictly otherwise by medical professionals which might well include an elimination dietary .

Remember that one swallow does not make a summer so every once awhile letting loose on bowl instead try out innovative recipes ☕️ , those Keto-friendly pancakes just hitspot ;-).

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