{"id":46156,"date":"2022-09-13T01:08:35","date_gmt":"2022-09-13T01:08:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=46156"},"modified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","modified_gmt":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","slug":"nitrite-vs-nitrate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/","title":{"rendered":"Nitrite Vs. Nitrate: The Difference And What It Means For Your Health"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#The_Difference_Between_Nitrites_And_Nitrates\" >The Difference Between Nitrites And Nitrates<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#The_Chemistry_Of_Nitrites_And_Nitrates\" >The Chemistry Of Nitrites And Nitrates<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#The_Use_Of_Nitrites_And_Nitrates_As_Food_Additives\" >The Use Of Nitrites And Nitrates As Food Additives<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Health_Benefits_Of_Nitrites_And_Nitrates\" >Health Benefits Of\u00a0 Nitrites And Nitrates<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#1_Cardiovascular_Regulation\" >1. Cardiovascular Regulation\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#2_Might_Improve_Brain_Function\" >2. Might Improve Brain Function\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#3_Reversal_Of_Metabolic_Syndrome\" >3. Reversal Of Metabolic Syndrome\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#4_May_Improve_Exercise_Performance\" >4. May Improve Exercise Performance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#5_May_Support_Immunity\" >5. May Support Immunity\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#6_Wound_Healing\" >6. Wound Healing\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#7_Helps_Maintain_Oral_Health\" >7. Helps Maintain Oral Health<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#How_To_Get_More_Benefits_And_Less_Risk\" >How To Get More Benefits And Less Risk?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Eat_More_Leafy_Greens\" >Eat More Leafy Greens<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Limit_Consumption_Of_Processed_Meats\" >Limit Consumption Of Processed Meats<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Read_Nutrition_Labels\" >Read Nutrition Labels\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Cook_At_Low_Temperatures\" >Cook At Low Temperatures<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Avoid_Cured_Meats_During_Pregnancy\" >Avoid Cured Meats During Pregnancy\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Q_How_Does_Nitrate_Become_Nitrite\" >Q: How Does Nitrate Become Nitrite?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Q_Which_Is_Worse_Nitrate_Or_Nitrite\" >Q: Which Is Worse, Nitrate Or Nitrite?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Q_Why_Are_Nitrates_And_Nitrites_Bad_For_You\" >Q: Why Are Nitrates And Nitrites Bad For You?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Q_What_Foods_Are_High_In_Nitrates\" >Q: What Foods Are High In Nitrates?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Q_How_Much_Nitrate_Is_Safe\" >Q: How Much Nitrate Is Safe?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Q_How_Can_I_Avoid_Nitrates_And_Nitrites\" >Q: How Can I Avoid Nitrates And Nitrites?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#The_Bottom_Line\" >The Bottom Line<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#Get_your_personalized\" >Get your personalized<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the words nitrites and nitrates conjure up visions of chem labs and high school science class for you, then you&#8217;re not alone. Many people didn&#8217;t realize that these chemicals can actually be found in many of our everyday foods. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lately, these two nitrogen-containing compounds are in the news again because of their potential role in human health. They&#8217;ve been linked to cancer, however, their connection is a little bit complicated. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, what is the difference between nitrate and nitrite? Which is worse? And what does all of this mean for your health?<\/span><\/p>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nitrite_Vs_Nitrate\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-2.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Difference_Between_Nitrites_And_Nitrates\"><\/span><b>The Difference Between Nitrites And Nitrates<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nitrites and nitrates are both nitrogen-containing compounds. The difference between them is their number of oxygen atoms present. Nitrites have two oxygen atoms, while nitrates have three (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4038383\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having two oxygen atoms makes nitrites more chemically reactive than nitrates. In other words, nitrites can interact with other chemicals more easily than nitrates. This difference seems small, but it may actually have big implications for human health (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4038383\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To completely understand how nitrites and nitrates can impact our health, it&#8217;s important to know a little bit about their chemistry.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Read More: <\/i><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/pea-milk-nutrition\/\"><i>Pea Milk Nutrition, Health Benefits And Side Effects<\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Chemistry_Of_Nitrites_And_Nitrates\"><\/span><b>The Chemistry Of Nitrites And Nitrates<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When we eat foods that contain nitrates (such as leafy greens, beets, and carrots), our bodies mostly excrete them as nitrates, but some are converted\u00a0 into nitrites. Once they&#8217;re in our bodies, nitrites can then be converted into other important chemicals, like nitric oxide (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4038383\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nitric oxide is a gas that has many important functions in the human body. It helps regulate blood pressure, keeps the lining of our blood vessels healthy, and even plays a role in brain function. This means nitrates and nitrites are not inherently harmful for our health. However, problems with nitrites and nitrates arise when they are used as food additives.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Use_Of_Nitrites_And_Nitrates_As_Food_Additives\"><\/span><b>The Use Of Nitrites And Nitrates As Food Additives<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nitrates and nitrites are often added to processed meats, like bacon, hot dogs, and lunch meats. They&#8217;re added for three main reasons: to preserve the meat, improve its flavor, and give it a pink or red color (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.efsa.europa.eu\/sites\/default\/files\/corporate_publications\/files\/nitrates-nitrites-170614.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When nitrites are added to meat, they help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. This is important because meat can spoil quickly and may cause food poisoning. Nitrites also react with the protein in meat to create a distinct flavor that many people enjoy. Finally, nitrites give processed meats their pink or red color that makes it even more visually appealing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While some amount of nitrites and nitrates, especially when they are naturally occurring in plant foods, is not harmful for our health, there is some concern that consuming them in processed meats may be harmful. In the presence of high heat (grilling or frying) and chemicals called amines (which are found in meat), nitrites can form compounds called nitrosamines (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.efsa.europa.eu\/sites\/default\/files\/corporate_publications\/files\/nitrates-nitrites-170614.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some nitrosamines are known to be carcinogenic, which means they can cause cancer. In animal studies, high levels of nitrosamines have been linked to cancer of the stomach, colon, and pancreas. However, it&#8217;s important to remember that these studies were done on animals, not humans.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The jury is still out on whether or not nitrosamines formed from nitrites and nitrates in processed meats can cause cancer in humans. Some studies have found a link between consuming processed meats and an increased risk of cancer, while other studies have found no link.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified red meat as a \u201cprobable human carcinogen\u201d (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/questions-and-answers\/item\/cancer-carcinogenicity-of-the-consumption-of-red-meat-and-processed-meat\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). This means there is limited evidence to show that they can cause cancer in humans, but the evidence is strong enough that the IARC believes there is a connection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The agency, which is part of the World Health Organization (WHO), has also classified processed meat as a \u201cdefinite human carcinogen\u201d. This means there is enough evidence to show that there is a strong link between consuming processed meats and an increased risk of cancer (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/questions-and-answers\/item\/cancer-carcinogenicity-of-the-consumption-of-red-meat-and-processed-meat\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). So, what does all of this mean for your health?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>BetterMe app will provide you with a host of fat-frying fitness routines that\u2019ll scare the extra pounds away and turn your body into a masterpiece! <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nitrite_Vs_Nitrate\">Get your life moving in the right direction<\/a> with BetterMe!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nitrite_Vs_Nitrate\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32581 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/4-9-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"nitrite vs nitrate\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/4-9.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/4-9-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/4-9.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/4-9-1636x920.jpg 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/4-9.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Health_Benefits_Of_Nitrites_And_Nitrates\"><\/span><b>Health Benefits Of\u00a0 Nitrites And Nitrates<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite the concerns about processed meats, it&#8217;s important to remember that nitrates and nitrites are not inherently harmful for our health. The saliva in our mouths contains bacteria that convert nitrates into nitrites.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once they&#8217;re in our bodies, nitrites may offer the following health benefits:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Cardiovascular_Regulation\"><\/span><b>1. Cardiovascular Regulation\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When derived from plant foods, nitrites are thought to help regulate blood pressure by dilating (widening) our blood vessels. This allows more blood to flow through them and lowers our blood pressure (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/19439460\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Might_Improve_Brain_Function\"><\/span><b>2. Might Improve Brain Function\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increasing dietary nitrate intake has been suggested as a strategy to improve brain function in older adults, because it is a nitric oxide precursor. While there were some promising early findings, one recent review found insufficient evidence at this time to recommend increasing dietary nitrate intake for the purpose of improving <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/journals.lww.com\/co-clinicalnutrition\/Abstract\/9900\/Dietary_nitrate,_aging_and_brain_health__the.21.aspx\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">brain health<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Perhaps further research will provide more clarity. <\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Reversal_Of_Metabolic_Syndrome\"><\/span><b>3. Reversal Of Metabolic Syndrome\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metabolic syndrome is a condition that&#8217;s characterized by high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abdominal fat. Nitrites converted into nitric oxide might help reverse the symptoms of metabolic syndrome by dilating blood vessels, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S1550413118303899\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">inflammation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/19439460\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). However, the current evidence for this is primarily based on animal studies.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_May_Improve_Exercise_Performance\"><\/span><b>4. May Improve Exercise Performance<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nitric oxide can dilate blood vessels, which may improve blood flow and help deliver more oxygen to our muscles. This might lead to improved exercise performance, especially in people who are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s40279-014-0149-y\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">deficient in nitrites<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/19439460\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_May_Support_Immunity\"><\/span><b>5. May Support Immunity\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dietary nitrates and nitrites may also play a role in modulating the immune system and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/nutritionreviews\/article\/77\/8\/584\/5509465\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">inflammatory response<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/19439460\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Wound_Healing\"><\/span><b>6. Wound Healing\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nitric oxide is thought to play an important role in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0002961002008152\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">wound healing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/19439460\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Helps_Maintain_Oral_Health\"><\/span><b>7. Helps Maintain Oral Health<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nitrites may help prevent gum disease and dental caries by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdpi.com\/2304-6767\/10\/5\/84\/htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mouth<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/19439460\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Read More: <\/i><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/6-nutrition-groups\/\"><i>What Are The 6 Nutrition Groups And Why Should You Care?<\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nitrite_Vs_Nitrate\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32578 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/7-8-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"BetterMe\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/7-8.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/7-8-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/7-8.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/7-8-1636x920.jpg 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/7-8.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Get_More_Benefits_And_Less_Risk\"><\/span><b>How To Get More Benefits And Less Risk?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re concerned about the potential risks of processed meats, there are a few things you can do to minimize your risk:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eat_More_Leafy_Greens\"><\/span><b>Eat More Leafy Greens<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The type of vegetables that are highest in nitrates are leafy greens, such as spinach, arugula, and kale. High intakes of fruits and vegetables tend to be associated with lower risks of cancer, including the types which are associated with processed meat intake (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3649719\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Limit_Consumption_Of_Processed_Meats\"><\/span><b>Limit Consumption Of Processed Meats<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you do eat processed meats, limit them to no more than two servings per week. When choosing processed meats, look for brands that are labeled \u201cnitrate-free\u201d or \u201cuncured\u201d (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wcrf.org\/diet-activity-and-cancer\/cancer-prevention-recommendations\/limit-red-and-processed-meat\/#:~:text=Eat%20no%20more%20than%20moderate,%2C%20if%20any%2C%20processed%20meat.\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note that other types of curing, such as celery juice powder, can still contain high levels of nitrates.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Read_Nutrition_Labels\"><\/span><b>Read Nutrition Labels\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To know whether processed meat contains nitrates or nitrites, you&#8217;ll need to read the nutrition label. Ingredients that end in &#8220;-nitrate&#8221; or &#8220;-nitrite&#8221; are forms of these chemicals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common names for nitrates include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Potassium nitrite (E249)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sodium nitrite (E250)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sodium nitrate (E251)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Potassium nitrate (E252)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cook_At_Low_Temperatures\"><\/span><b>Cook At Low Temperatures<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When cooking any type of meat, cook it at low temperatures to reduce the formation of nitrosamines. Cooking your bacon in a microwave instead of frying it, for example, can reduce the formation of nitrosamines.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other tips for cooking meat include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use lean cuts of meat to reduce the amount of fat.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid charring meat by cooking it until it&#8217;s just done, not overcooked.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If using a barbecue, cook meat on a lower rack to avoid charring.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuously turn and baste the meat with a marinade to keep it moist.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remove any charred bits before eating.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Avoid_Cured_Meats_During_Pregnancy\"><\/span><b>Avoid Cured Meats During Pregnancy\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re pregnant, it&#8217;s often recommended to avoid cured meats and deli meats altogether. This is because of the risk of listeria, which can be very harmful to the fetus.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nitrite_Vs_Nitrate\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32577 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/8-6-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"nitrite vs nitrate\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/8-6.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/8-6-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/8-6.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/8-6-1636x920.jpg 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/8-6.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Betterme will keep you laser-focused on your weight loss journey! Nutrient-packed meal plans, fat-blasting workouts, galvanizing challenges and much more. <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nitrite_Vs_Nitrate\">Try using the app and see<\/a> for yourself!<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Below are some frequently asked questions about nitrites and nitrates.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_How_Does_Nitrate_Become_Nitrite\"><\/span><b>Q: How Does Nitrate Become Nitrite?\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A: Nitrate is converted to nitrite by bacteria that are naturally present in our mouths and GI tracts.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_Which_Is_Worse_Nitrate_Or_Nitrite\"><\/span><b>Q: Which Is Worse, Nitrate Or Nitrite?\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A: Nitrates are stable and not harmful on their own. Nitrites, on the other hand, can interact with other compounds to form carcinogenic (cancer-causing) nitrosamines. They can also be converted to nitric oxide, which has some health benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_Why_Are_Nitrates_And_Nitrites_Bad_For_You\"><\/span><b>Q: Why Are Nitrates And Nitrites Bad For You?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A: At high levels, nitrates and nitrites may be toxic. They can also interact with other compounds to form carcinogenic (cancer-causing) nitrosamines.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_What_Foods_Are_High_In_Nitrates\"><\/span><b>Q: What Foods Are High In Nitrates?\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A:\u00a0 The type of vegetables that are highest in nitrates are leafy greens, such as spinach, arugula, and kale. Processed meats, such as bacon and ham, are also high in nitrates.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_How_Much_Nitrate_Is_Safe\"><\/span><b>Q: How Much Nitrate Is Safe?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.efsa.europa.eu\/sites\/default\/files\/corporate_publications\/files\/nitrates-nitrites-170614.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The European Food Safety Authority<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> sets the acceptable daily intake of dietary nitrates at 3.7 mg per kg of body weight per day. The level for nitrite is 0.07 mg\/kg\/day.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_How_Can_I_Avoid_Nitrates_And_Nitrites\"><\/span><b>Q: How Can I Avoid Nitrates And Nitrites?\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A: You can minimize your exposure to added nitrates and nitrites by eating more leafy greens and other plant-based foods, limiting processed meats, cooking meat at low temperatures, and avoiding cured meats during pregnancy. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nitrite_Vs_Nitrate\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32568 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/5-6-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"nitrite vs nitrate\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/5-6.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/5-6-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/5-6.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/5-6-1636x920.jpg 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/5-6.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/b><\/h2>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Bottom_Line\"><\/span><b>The Bottom Line<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nitrites and nitrates are not inherently bad for our health, but consuming them in processed meats may be harmful. If you&#8217;re concerned about the potential risks, you can limit your intake of processed meats or avoid them altogether. You can also look for nitrite-free products.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to nitrites and nitrates, it&#8217;s important to remember that moderation is key. These compounds may be positive for our health when they are naturally occurring in plant-based foods, but consuming too much of them may be harmful. As with anything, it&#8217;s important to strike a balance.<\/span><\/p>\n\n    <section class=\"ad-single-wrapper\">\n        <div class=\"ad-single-text ad-title-wrapper\">\n            <h3 class=\"ad-single-title\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_your_personalized\"><\/span>Get your personalized<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n            <span class=\"ad-single-sub-title color-green\">\n                <svg class=\"icon-sparkle\" width=\"36\" height=\"21\" viewBox=\"0 0 36 21\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\"\n                          d=\"M34.6837 0.515943C34.8247 0.835947 34.9421 1.16291 34.9891 1.48987C35.1417 2.64466 35.3179 6.51949 35.2592 7.29863C35.2592 7.53515 35.1887 7.7995 35.0243 8.01516C34.7307 8.39777 33.9791 8.4256 33.5681 8.07081C33.4154 7.94559 33.3215 7.77863 33.2745 7.61863C33.1453 7.15254 33.0396 6.68645 32.9809 6.22035C32.8165 4.81512 32.6638 3.40293 32.5581 1.9977C32.5229 1.53161 32.6051 1.05856 32.6991 0.592466C32.7695 0.244637 33.251 -0.0197144 33.6973 0.00115537C34.2257 0.0289818 34.5546 0.230723 34.6837 0.515943ZM18.6184 9.78225C18.5734 9.67557 18.5344 9.57528 18.4971 9.47956C18.4178 9.27568 18.3465 9.09257 18.2426 8.91267C16.7159 6.24133 14.2615 3.86217 11.4665 1.60128C11.1377 1.33693 10.7267 1.08649 10.2687 0.919531C10.0221 0.829095 9.52885 0.843009 9.247 0.933445C9.03562 1.00301 8.88295 1.27432 8.92992 1.42736C9.01213 1.71954 9.18828 2.01868 9.4349 2.28303C11.0555 4.02913 12.6879 5.76829 14.3437 7.50048C14.8308 8.0068 15.3395 8.50887 15.8473 9.01L15.8473 9.01001C15.9883 9.14921 16.1293 9.28833 16.2697 9.42746C16.4811 9.64311 16.7159 9.85181 16.9626 10.0466C17.2327 10.2692 17.6437 10.4014 18.0547 10.2553C18.0691 10.2501 18.0836 10.245 18.0981 10.2399C18.1097 10.2358 18.1213 10.2318 18.1329 10.2278C18.3785 10.1424 18.6184 10.0589 18.6184 9.78225ZM1.98942 20.1407C2.17783 20.1221 2.37674 20.105 2.58175 20.0875C2.99012 20.0525 3.42272 20.0154 3.84492 19.9598C6.34632 19.6259 8.84771 19.292 11.3374 18.9442C11.8776 18.8676 12.406 18.7355 12.8875 18.5824C13.5334 18.3807 13.7566 18.0954 13.6509 17.7824C13.5452 17.4694 13.1224 17.2746 12.3826 17.2676C11.8776 17.2607 11.3374 17.2676 10.8559 17.3372C7.69683 17.8102 4.5378 18.2972 1.3905 18.7911C1.03819 18.8468 0.674137 18.9442 0.404034 19.0833C-0.2771 19.4242 -0.065712 19.9598 0.803314 20.092C1.01858 20.1228 1.25262 20.1258 1.51135 20.1291C1.66195 20.131 1.82092 20.133 1.98942 20.1407Z\"\n                          fill=\"#17B991\"\/>\n                <\/svg>\n               meal plan!\n            <\/span>\n        <\/div>\n    \n        <div class=\"ad-single-text ad-desc-wrapper\">\n            <p class=\"ad-single-desc\">What's your main health goal?<\/p>\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nitrite_Vs_Nitrate\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\">Lose weight<\/a>\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2273&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nitrite_Vs_Nitrate\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\">Feel great<\/a>\n        <\/div>\n        <img class=\"ad-single-img\" alt=\"health-food\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"395\" height=\"383\" src=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/themes\/gridlove-child\/assets\/img\/ad\/health-food.webp\">\n    <\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If the words nitrites and nitrates conjure up visions of chem labs and high school science class for you, then you&#8217;re not alone. Many people didn&#8217;t realize that these chemicals can actually be found in many of our everyday foods. Lately, these two nitrogen-containing compounds are in the news again because of their potential role [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":42,"featured_media":46157,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"coauthors":[123,87],"class_list":["post-46156","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-nutrition"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Nitrite Vs. Nitrate: The Difference And What It Means For Your Health - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Nitrites and nitrates are essential for our health, however overconsumption may cause some unwanted risks. Read on to learn more about \u2605 NITRITE VS NITRATE. \u27a4 What are you waiting for?\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Nitrite Vs. Nitrate: The Difference And What It Means For Your Health\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Nitrites and nitrates are essential for our health, however overconsumption may cause some unwanted risks. Read on to learn more about \u2605 NITRITE VS NITRATE. \u27a4 What are you waiting for?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/shutterstock_2170232169.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"667\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Nderitu Munuhe, Kristen Fleming, RD\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Nderitu Munuhe, Kristen Fleming, RD\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Nderitu Munuhe\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/fd388c502442518f5c9b372be02b556b\"},\"headline\":\"Nitrite Vs. Nitrate: The Difference And What It Means For Your Health\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/\"},\"wordCount\":1766,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/shutterstock_2170232169.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Nutrition\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">If the words nitrites and nitrates conjure up visions of chem labs and high school science class for you, then you're not alone. Many people didn't realize that these chemicals can actually be found in many of our everyday foods. <\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Lately, these two nitrogen-containing compounds are in the news again because of their potential role in human health. They've been linked to cancer, however, their connection is a little bit complicated. <\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">So, what is the difference between nitrate and nitrite? Which is worse? And what does all of this mean for your health?<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><b>The Difference Between Nitrites And Nitrates<\/b><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Nitrites and nitrates are both nitrogen-containing compounds. The difference between them is their number of oxygen atoms present. Nitrites have two oxygen atoms, while nitrates have three (<\/span><a href=\\\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4038383\/\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">).\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Having two oxygen atoms makes nitrites more chemically reactive than nitrates. In other words, nitrites can interact with other chemicals more easily than nitrates. This difference seems small, but it may actually have big implications for human health (<\/span><a href=\\\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4038383\/\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">).<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">To completely understand how nitrites and nitrates can impact our health, it's important to know a little bit about their chemistry.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<b><i>Read More: <\/i><\/b><a href=\\\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/pea-milk-nutrition\/\\\"><i>Pea Milk Nutrition, Health Benefits And Side Effects<\/i><\/a>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><b>The Chemistry Of Nitrites And Nitrates<\/b ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/\",\"name\":\"Nitrite Vs. Nitrate: The Difference And What It Means For Your Health - BetterMe\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/shutterstock_2170232169.jpg\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"description\":\"Nitrites and nitrates are essential for our health, however overconsumption may cause some unwanted risks. 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Nitrate: The Difference And What It Means For Your Health","dateModified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/"},"wordCount":1766,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/shutterstock_2170232169.jpg","articleSection":["Nutrition"],"inLanguage":"en-US","articleBody":"<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the words nitrites and nitrates conjure up visions of chem labs and high school science class for you, then you're not alone. Many people didn't realize that these chemicals can actually be found in many of our everyday foods. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lately, these two nitrogen-containing compounds are in the news again because of their potential role in human health. They've been linked to cancer, however, their connection is a little bit complicated. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, what is the difference between nitrate and nitrite? Which is worse? And what does all of this mean for your health?<\/span>\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>The Difference Between Nitrites And Nitrates<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nitrites and nitrates are both nitrogen-containing compounds. The difference between them is their number of oxygen atoms present. Nitrites have two oxygen atoms, while nitrates have three (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4038383\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having two oxygen atoms makes nitrites more chemically reactive than nitrates. In other words, nitrites can interact with other chemicals more easily than nitrates. This difference seems small, but it may actually have big implications for human health (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4038383\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To completely understand how nitrites and nitrates can impact our health, it's important to know a little bit about their chemistry.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<b><i>Read More: <\/i><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/pea-milk-nutrition\/\"><i>Pea Milk Nutrition, Health Benefits And Side Effects<\/i><\/a>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>The Chemistry Of Nitrites And Nitrates<\/b ..."},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/","url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nitrite-vs-nitrate\/","name":"Nitrite Vs. 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