In a previous article, we discussed the role of crystallization inhibitors and their importance in preventing the formation of new stones or stopping their growth. In this article, we will focus specifically on phytate, an effective molecule for calcium stones.
Phytate is a naturally occurring molecule found in many foods, mainly in whole grains, legumes, and nuts.
Phytate has several health benefits, but its use is particularly recommended for people with calcium-based kidney stones. The particularity of phytate, also called phytic acid, is that it has a large negative charge, which gives it a strong attraction for positively charged molecules such as calcium.
Thanks to this high affinity, phytate can capture calcium molecules in the urine, preventing them from binding with oxalate and thus preventing the formation of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can lead to kidney stones. Similarly, if a calcium oxalate stone nucleus is already forming in the urine, phytate binds to the crystal and prevents new calcium molecules from adhering to the forming stone, thereby blocking the growth of the stone and facilitating its elimination before it can cause damage.
Phytate's action is even more potent against calcium oxalate crystals in the presence of magnesium. Magnesium competes with calcium to bind to oxalate, but the oxalate-magnesium complex is more soluble and cannot form stones.
If you have calcium stones, taking products concentrated in phytate and magnesium could help inhibit their crystallization. Don't forget to drink water often and in sufficient quantities to help prevent stone formation, as well as maintain a balanced diet and daily physical activity.
