Say NO to Nitrites in Processed Meats

Now that you're firing up the grill more as summer nears, are you grilling hot dogs and sausage? If so, you're likely consuming nitrites, which are used as preservatives. They are also the source of many health concerns, as nitrite consumption has been linked to migraines, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), and certain cancers. I recently chatted with the folks at Foodessentials to help them with their informative nitrite blog post that can be found here.
Here's a little bit about what I have to say about nitrite consumption:

"However, in light of safety concerns, many nutritionists recommend you avoid added nitrites if there are safer alternatives. In a recent discussion with dietitian Janel Ovrut (MS RD LDN), she commented that she encourages her clients to consume limited amounts of processed meats, or choose natural, organic, nitrite-free meets if possible (see links below for information). She points out that not only do processed meats contain nitrites, but they also tend to be high in sodium and saturated fat. Whether the links between processed meats and health problems are due to nitrites, or saturated fat content, cholesterol, and any other factors, Janel advises that it is wise to limit processed meats as much as possible in the diet."

Read the package of your processed meats and put it down if it contains nitrites! Or, leave the guess work out of it by leaving processed meats out of your diet.