Struggling with IBS? High oxalates might be the culprit

For years, I struggled with joint pain without ever receiving an official diagnosis of arthritis. I had ganglions, was unable to put any pressure on my wrists, experienced swelling in my knuckles and ankles, and dealt with painful hips. Despite numerous tests and consultations, I never found out the exact cause – was it psoriatic arthritis, candida, or just part of the inflammatory autoimmune conditions I was living with?

Interestingly, all my symptoms disappeared over nine years ago and have never returned. At the time, I never fully explored what had triggered them, but now, after years of research and working with clients facing similar issues, I believe I have the answer: oxalic acid.

Uncovering the role of oxalic acid

Oxalic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in many plant-based foods, including leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and some fruits and vegetables. I had always been conscious of what I ate, making nutrient-dense choices, but I never considered that something as seemingly healthy as spinach or almonds could have been contributing to my symptoms.

Under normal circumstances, oxalates – the salt form of oxalic acid – bind with calcium in the gut and are safely excreted from the body. However, for some people, oxalates can enter the bloodstream, where they bind with calcium and form tiny crystals. These crystals may be deposited in joints, the urinary tract, and other tissues, causing irritation and inflammation. In hindsight, this could explain the stiffness and swelling I experienced, which flared up unpredictably despite my best efforts to manage my autoimmune health.

Through my clinical work, I’ve seen this pattern in many others. Some of my clients with IBS report worsening gut symptoms, while others with chronic pain describe a burning or gritty sensation in their joints that no standard approach seems to resolve. The more I investigated, the more I realised that oxalates were playing a much bigger role in chronic inflammation than I had previously thought.

The link between oxalates and gut health

What I didn’t know back then  – but now fully appreciate – is that certain gut bacteria, particularly oxalobacter formigenes, help break down oxalates in the gut. If these bacteria are missing or imbalanced, whether due to antibiotic use, dysbiosis, or an existing gut condition, oxalates are more likely to be absorbed into the bloodstream rather than eliminated.

One of my clients, who had struggled with bloating, cramping, and seemingly random joint pain, had been through multiple elimination diets without lasting relief. Testing revealed she lacked oxalobacter formigenes and had high oxalate markers. By adjusting her diet, improving her gut microbiome, and using key supplements, her symptoms dramatically improved within months. Her case mirrored my own in many ways, reinforcing the importance of addressing oxalates in those struggling with both gut and inflammatory conditions.

Reducing oxalic acid load

Over time, I discovered that making a few key changes made a significant difference. Pairing high-oxalate foods with calcium-rich sources, such as incorporating canned fish with bones, allowed oxalates to bind in the gut rather than being absorbed. Cooking vegetables, particularly boiling or steaming, significantly reduced their oxalate content – something I wish I had known earlier. I also found that citrates, such as magnesium citrate, could help dissolve oxalate crystals, reducing the risk of flare-ups.

When I implemented these strategies myself, I realised just how much of a difference they made. The subtle joint pain that would occasionally return when I overdid it on nuts or raw greens disappeared when I balanced my intake and supported my gut health. These changes weren’t just theoretical; they were tangible, both in my own body and in those of my clients.

Testing for oxalates

If I had known about oxalate testing years ago, I would have saved myself a lot of frustration. The Metabolomix Panel, which I now refer to as my Cell Health Test, measures oxalate markers in urine, offering insight into whether the body is struggling to metabolise them. Additionally, the GI Effects Stool Test can detect the presence of oxalobacter formigenes, giving a clearer picture of gut-related oxalate issues.

When I see clients with unexplained joint pain, IBS, or recurring urinary issues, I often recommend these tests to rule out oxalates as a contributing factor. Time and time again, I’ve witnessed significant symptom improvement when oxalate levels are properly addressed.

Reflecting on my own journey, I now see oxalates as an overlooked piece of the puzzle in inflammatory conditions. While they aren’t the root cause for everyone, they are a key factor for many. If you’ve been struggling with joint pain, gut issues, or persistent inflammation and haven’t found answers, oxalates may be worth investigating.

The good news? Simple dietary adjustments, targeted gut support, and strategic supplementation can make a world of difference. If this resonates with you, consider testing and implementing these changes – you might just find the relief you’ve been searching for.