Nitrates May Cause Severe Side Effects

Every human has nitrates naturally in their body. Nitrates are Inorganic substances found everywhere in the nature in water, fruits and vegetables. The problems arise when there are excess amounts of nitrates in the food or water. Because of widely used nitrogen based fertilizers, and possible seepage from septic sewer systems, rural wells are most likely to be contaminated with nitrates. Excess amounts of nitrates have also been found in bottled water and deep water wells.

Nitrate Sources

Processes meat products, like sausages and cold cuts, often have nitrates as preservatives, and vegetables like carrots and spinach naturally contain various amounts. There are medications like silver nitrate burn therapy and nitrite inhalants, which may cause an accumulation of in the body. Industrial uses, like gases for anesthesia, possibly expose workers to nitrates.

Pregnancy

Expectant mother being exposed to nitrates during pregnancy may be setting her baby for a grater risk of developing type 1 diabetes later in life. She may also have a grater risk of complications during pregnancy, like anemia, pre-eclampsia, and delivering the baby prematurely. CDC also mentions of mother possibly transferring the nitrates to the baby during pregnancy.

Infants and Children

CDC’s case studies show children and infants having the highest risk for experiencing nitrate toxicity. This is a result of feeding children baby foods preserved with nitrates, and infants with milk substitute diluted with nitrate contaminated water. Furthermore, infants have a higher pH in their intestines favoring nitrates turnaround to toxic substances. Furthermore part of their blood hemoglobin is in form to get oxidized easier, and develop condition called methemoglobinemia.

Cancer

Nitrates and nitrites are used to preserve, and enhance the color of meat products. According to World Cancer Research Fund, the red meat and processed meat products are a cause of bowel cancer. CDC noted there was an increased incidence of stomach cancer was observed in group of farmers using nitrate fertilizers, but no conclusive evidence of nitrates being the cause.

Methemoglobinemia

Nitrate toxicity is diagnosed using a test measuring methemoglobin level in the blood. CDC’s case studies explain, that methemoglobinemia is an acute and serious side effect of nitrate toxicity. Red blood cells that are affected loose their ability to transport oxygen. This may lead to oxygen deficiency and methemoglobinemia. Side effects may include nausea, dizziness, weakness, headache, and bluish color of the nail beds and skin. Care in hospital and special medication is required to reverse this condition.

Considerations

World Cancer Research Fund recommends a diet focused on fruits and vegetables, and poultry and fish instead of red and processed meat products. Prepare foods from fresh produce when possible, and wash well to avoid contaminants. Breastfeeding is the obvious way to prevent infants having an excess amount of nitrates in their lunch. You may have to learn a new way to eat if ham and beef have been a major part of your family traditions.

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