OXALATES Meaning and
Definition
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Oxalates are chemical compounds that contain the oxalate ion (C2O42-). They are derived from oxalic acid, a strong organic acid found abundantly in many plants, including fruits and vegetables. Oxalates are commonly found in foods such as spinach, rhubarb, beet greens, almonds, and chocolate.
In nature, oxalates serve as a form of defense mechanism for plants against predators. These compounds bind to minerals like calcium to form insoluble crystals called calcium oxalate. This crystal formation can sometimes result in the growth of kidney stones in humans if consumed excessively. Therefore, individuals with a history of kidney stones or those prone to a condition known as hyperoxaluria may need to be cautious about their oxalate intake.
The presence of oxalates in the body can hinder the absorption of essential minerals, particularly calcium. This can affect the overall nutrient balance and contribute to the development of mineral deficiencies. However, it's important to note that most individuals do not experience any negative effects from consuming foods containing oxalates. In fact, oxalic acid can also be metabolized and utilized in certain metabolic pathways within the body.
In summary, oxalates are chemical compounds found naturally in numerous plants. While excessive oxalate consumption can potentially lead to kidney stones and mineral deficiencies, it is generally safe to consume oxalate-containing foods in moderation. Consulting a healthcare professional or a nutritionist can provide personalized guidance for individuals with specific dietary concerns related to oxalates.
Common Misspellings for OXALATES
- oxalate
- oxalite
- oxalits
- Oxolate
- ixalates
- kxalates
- lxalates
- pxalates
- 0xalates
- 9xalates
- ozalates
- ocalates
- odalates
- osalates
- oxzlates
- oxslates
- oxwlates
- oxqlates
- oxakates
- oxapates
Etymology of OXALATES
The word "oxalates" has its etymology rooted in the term "oxalic acid". The term "oxalic" comes from the Latin word "oxalis", which means "sorrel", a type of plant that was used historically for its high oxalic acid content. The suffix "-ate" is derived from Latin as well and is commonly used in chemistry to signify a salt or an ester of an acid. Therefore, "oxalates" refers to the salts or esters of oxalic acid.
