We often hear that eating a large quantity of vegetables and fruits can be exceptional for out health. However, we should know that even in their fresh state, some natural foods also contain natural toxins. Swiss chard, beets, cranberries, strawberries, parsley, spinach and rhubarb are healthy food options. However, they contain oxalic acid, which binds zinc, iron and calcium in our digestive tracts; reducing the effective absorption. Kidney stones are made from oxalates, so people who are prone to this illness should avoid high-oxalate diet. Wheat is higher in phytic acid and it can limit the mineral absorption and the highest quantity can be found in wheat bran. For this reason, we should also consume oats, barley, quinoa, buckwheat and brown rice; instead of only wheat.
Sulfur is an essential part of our daily diet and can improve our body’s make-up. Sulfur is a common element used for treating joint pains and other similar problems. It is commonly found in onions, garlic, cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage. Our digestive system could process unusually higher amount of sulphur if we eat these foods. In some people, they could experience various symptoms, such as discomfort, flatulence and overall pains. In this case, moderation is always essential and eating huge quantity of garlic and broccoli each day will bring some unintended consequences. The nightshade family is known for its toxicity, especially due to the presence of solanaceae. However, some common produce, such as eggplants, tomatoes, potatoes and some colored peppers are actually included in the nightshade family. When we consume high quantity of alkaloids from these foods; our blood will become slightly acidified. Constant ingestion of alkaloids can cause the removal of calcium from our bones and it will be deposited in our soft tissue. In this case, alkaloids are risk factors for the development of arthritis, osteoporosis, kidney stones and pains in general.
Some foods contain goitrogens and it prevents the use of iodine in our body. It means that thyroidal functions in our body can be disrupted. Our thyroid glands can become compromised and weak. Goitrogns can be found in cabbage, mustard, soy and soy-derived food products. For people who regularly consume soy products and develop some thyroid-related issues; they should consider cutting down on the consumptions of soy products. Their conditions are often restored after soy products are eliminated from diet and small amount of iodine supplementation is administered. Again, moderation is essential, even when consuming healthy foods.
Tannin is commonly found in food products and they can reduce the absorption of calcium, iron and other minerals. Black tea and red wine is particularly high in tannin. In this case, we shouldn’t drink too much of black tea; because we may eventually suffer from mineral deficiency. It is important to give our body an opportunity to absorb enough minerals. High tannin beverages should be consumed after minerals are absorbed in our body; or about 3-4 hours after a large meal. There are plenty of fresh food products in the market, but we shouldn’t consume them too much. Good diet is consisted of wide variety of food products.
