Phytate is a natural component found in vegetables and seeds, specifically in the outer layer of the latter. The human body does not produce it, so to maintain adequate levels of this substance, it is essential to regularly consume foods that contain it.
One of the main properties of phytate is its ability to inhibit calcium crystals, but it also has other equally important properties, such as its antioxidant power that prevents the formation of free radicals and its protective action on bone.
The current diet, rich in refined or pre-cooked products, is deficient in this substance, and this is one of the causes of the increase in kidney stone cases. Even so, the Mediterranean diet is one of the few that includes foods rich in phytate, such as whole grains, legumes, and nuts, with a recommended daily intake of 1.3 grams. However, the salt content of nuts should be considered, as it can be counterproductive for people with lithiasis. Phytates can also be obtained through dietary supplements.
It has been observed that phytates play a fundamental role in the prevention of kidney stones: they block the growth of crystals responsible for the formation of calculi or stones in the kidney, especially calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate types, and thus prevent this disease from occurring.
However, the formation of kidney stones depends on many factors, and there are also various types of stones. Therefore, one of the best ways to prevent their formation is through dietary changes. A diet rich in phytates can help reduce the risk of suffering from this disease, the third most frequent urological pathology, after infections and prostate issues, and which affects more than 2 million people in Spain.
