Comparison of Oxalate Content in Foods and Beverages in Taiwan
摘要
Calcium oxalate is the most-frequently found component of uroliths in Taiwan as well as in the world. Some studies have shown that only 10%～20% of urinary oxalate is derived from food intake, but others have indicated that dietary oxalate has a much higher contribution than previously recognized. In the present study, we analyzed oxalate contents of foods and beverages that are common in Taiwan. Some of our materials are unique to the Taiwan area. Although most of the materials can be found elsewhere in the world, some are indigenous to this region. The results showed that Chinese Pennisetum powder (and juice), spinach, amaranthus, carambola, Anredera cordifilia Moq, Basella rubra, sweet potato leaves and bitter melon have high oxalate contents. For patients with oxalate stones or renal failure, proper restrictions of such high-oxalate foods are recommended.