What Are the Hazards of Nitrites?
Disease description:
I’ve heard that nitrites can cause cancer, so we should generally consume less pickled foods, such as salted vegetables. Could you please explain the health hazards associated with nitrites?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
When kept within safe limits, nitrites have no adverse effects on the body. However, excessive intake can lead nitrites to convert into nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic. In pregnant women, excessive consumption may cause fetal malformations; in children under five years of age, it significantly increases the risk of brain cancer. Nitrites can also cause poisoning, resulting in hypoxia, vasodilation, and decreased blood pressure.
