Sound Off!

In defense of natural nitrates

I often hear people complain or worry about nitrates in food – especially lunch meat, hot dogs and the like. Nitrates and nitrites are preservatives used in foods such as cured meats to curb the growth of bacteria and maintain color in corned beef, hot dogs, and ham. Without them, these foods would take on a gray hue, which is not very appetizing. Unfortunately, these preservatives can produce carcinogens known as nitrosamines. Thankfully, vitamin C is now added to these foods to dampen the production of nitrosamines.

New research now suggests that nitrates from natural sources may reduce the risk of stomach ulcers. Nitrates in foods stimulate nitric oxide production in the stomach, which improves blood flow and makes the lining of the stomach thicken. This thickening may protect the stomach from acidic damage. Most nitrates (approximately 70%) come from vegetables and not preservatives. Only 6% comes from artificial preservatives in our diet.

If you're at risk for stomach ulcers due to chronic use of aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Advil, Aleve or prescriptions such as Naproxen), add more broccoli, cauliflower, collard greens, radishes, potatoes and spinach to your diet. You can never eat too many vegetables.

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