🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Understanding oxalate in foods and its health implications
via Punch Nigeria6 min read
Oxalate, an organic compound found in many plants like leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, cocoa, nuts, and seeds, is formed when oxalic acid binds to minerals. While the body can produce oxalate or obtain it from food, and vitamin C can convert to oxalate, its presence can impact human health. Oxalate can bind to minerals in the gut, potentially reducing their absorption. For instance, while spinach is rich in calcium, oxalate in it can hinder calcium absorption. However, not all minerals in food will bind to oxalate, and calcium absorption from milk is unaffected when consumed with spinach. A primary concern with oxalate is its contribution to kidney stones. Approximately 80 percent of kidney stones are composed of calcium oxalate. In sensitive individuals, high-oxalate diets have been linked to an increased risk of kidney stones. While small stones may not cause issues, larger ones can lead to severe pain. Current recommendations for kidney stone prevention suggest that a strict low-oxalate diet is typically advised only for patients with high urinary oxalate levels, as about half of the oxalate in urine is body-produced. Studies indicate that reducing high-oxalate food intake and maintaining normal dietary calcium may help mitigate calcium oxalate supersaturation and stone risk. Cereals and cereal products also contribute significantly to daily oxalate intake, especially in vegetarian diets. Despite potential negative health effects, many oxalate-rich foods are healthy, off
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadU.S. President Donald Trump has released CCTV footage and images of the suspect involved in a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C. The footage reportedly shows the suspect running into the Washington Hilton ballroom, bypassing security. Trump also shared images of a shirtless man, believed to be the suspected gunman, restrained in the foyer. Describing the individual as a “would-be assassin,” Trump stated the suspect was heavily armed and breached a security checkpoint before being stopped. According to BBC reports, the president said the suspect “charged past a security checkpoint” with multiple weapons. He added that a law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to a bulletproof vest. The incident occurred on Saturday night, causing panic and the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests. Authorities have confirmed the suspect is in custody, and investigations are ongoing.
Must ReadThe United States Secret Service has initiated an investigation into a shooting incident that took place in Washington during the annual White House Correspondents' Dinner at the Washington Hilton. The agency is collaborating with the Metropolitan Police Department to ascertain the details of the incident, which occurred near a security screening area and the main magnetometer checkpoint for guest screening. Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the United States Secret Service, confirmed on X that all protected individuals, including the president and first lady, were safe. One suspect has been apprehended, and authorities are evaluating the condition of those involved. Guglielmi stated that teams are actively investigating and gathering information, promising updates as more details emerge. The incident has prompted renewed concerns regarding security at significant public events in the US capital, with a review of procedures anticipated as the investigation progresses.
Must ReadUS President Donald Trump described the suspect in a shooting incident at a Washington media gala as a "would-be assassin," stating the individual was heavily armed and breached security before being stopped. The incident occurred on Saturday night during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton. Gunfire near a security checkpoint caused panic and led to the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests. Trump said the suspect "charged past a security checkpoint" with multiple weapons, and one law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to a bulletproof vest. Secret Service agents quickly apprehended the suspect, and the president, first lady, and other high-profile attendees were safely escorted from the venue. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes. Trump also expressed concerns about the venue’s security. The event has been canceled and is expected to be rescheduled, with investigations ongoing into the suspect's motive and the security breach. The shooting has intensified scrutiny over security at high-profile public events in the US.
BreakingUS President Donald Trump and the First Lady were unharmed following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night. The United States Secret Service confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody, with investigations ongoing in collaboration with local law enforcement. The shooting occurred near the main security screening area at the Washington Hilton, the event venue, where hundreds of journalists, politicians, and guests had gathered. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots shortly after 8:30 p.m., causing panic and leading to the swift evacuation of top officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance and cabinet members. President Trump praised security agencies for their quick and brave response, noting that the shooter had been apprehended. Organizers confirmed that the president would address the press and plans to possibly reschedule the event within 30 days. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is an annual gathering celebrating press freedom in the United States. Authorities have not yet released full details about the suspect or possible casualties.