Additive 5 - Nitrates & Nitrites

Who doesn't love bacon??? and sausage, and ham. Well, all these delicious processed meats have one thing in common, they are processed with nitrites and nitrates. They are added to preserve the meat for longer periods of time without bacteria growth. Also, these additives give meat the salty flavor we love so much as well as that that red/pink appearance which is so appealing to the eye. What's the catch?

When nitrites are exposed to high heat and amino acids they can turn into Nitrosamines which are potent carcinogens. Most processed meats tend to be high in Nitrite and Protein (a source of amino acids), and cooking these meats creates the perfect conditions for Nitrosamine formation. Now, like that wasn't enough Nitrosamine in your system, your liver converts the other additive, Nitrates, into Nitrosamines as well, so one way or another Nitrosamine finds its way into your body. 

Also, these chemicals, when consumed, can bind to your hemoglobin, the molecules that carry oxygenate throughout the body, and cause dizziness, headaches and rapid heartbeat. 

As I mentioned before, both nitrate and nitrite can be found on bacon, ham, hot dogs, and sausages so they are not hard to find. 

These processed meats are delicious and very appealing but now that you know their dangers and risks you can make an informed decision and choose wisely. 


                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Eating Clean by Wright Larsen
                                                                                                                                                                http://authoritynutrition.com/are-nitrates-and-nitrites-harmful/