Diet & Nutrition
Article #4 - About nitrates and nitrites
I know that nitrates and nitrites are not good for us, but can you explain why? What do they do or not do to our bodies and their systems?Nitrites and nitrates are preservatives added to cured meats such as bacon, hot dogs and many deli meats. They are used to prevent the growth of bacteria and to give meat a bright pink color. (The nitrites react with meat pigments to form this color.) Nitrates from use of nitrogen fertilizers in farming also find their way into surface water and groundwater every year)
(1). In our stomachs, nitrates form nitrosamines, a substance which has been shown to cause cancer, especially in the esophagus, stomach and upper airway. Some studies have also shown prenatal exposure to nitrosamines may be associated with increased incidence of type 1 diabetes in the child, but more research is still needed in this area
(2). Nitrates are regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) because they oversee the use of chemicals in meats. No action has been taken to ban these substances from meats because they feel that the risk of cancer to humans is low. The USDA does recommend moderation in the use of nitrates and they encourage food manufacturers to add Vitamin C to cured meats to reduce the amount of nitrosamines produced.
Follow these tips to avoid over-exposure of nitrates…..
Limit consumption of cured meats, hot dogs and deli meats or buy nitrate free brands. (yes, they have them!)
Increase your fruit and vegetable intake and especially ones high in Vitamin C (citrus, peppers and strawberries) since it blocks the formation of nitrosamines.
Eat more yogurt…it has active cultures that can help prevent the growth of nitrate producing bacteria.
And just some FYI…nitrites and nitrates are similar compounds that do the same thing in our bodies, so you can use the words interchangeably.
References:
1. Stomach Cancer: An Overview. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com. Accessed October 12, 2004.
2. Position of the American Dietetic Association: Nutrition and Lifestyle for a healthy pregnancy outcome. J Am Diet Assoc. 2002;102:1470-1490.