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What Are the Dangers of Nitrites & Nitrates?

Nitrites and nitrates are inorganic ions which play a role in our diets. They can be found in cured meats, such as deli meats, bacon, hot dogs and sausages. Vegetables also contain a small amount of nitrates and nitrites due to pesticides. Drinking water, generally from domestic wells, can be contaminated by these two ions. When an individual is exposed to high levels of nitrites and nitrates, he may face certain risks.

  1. Blue Baby Syndrome

    • Infants who are under four months of age are at the greatest risk of being affected by nitrate and nitrite exposure, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Babies who are exposed to drinking water containing these two ions may develop methemoglobinemia, which is commonly referred to as "blue baby syndrome." This condition prevents the baby's blood from carrying oxygen and causes the infant to turn a blue-grey color, according to the Vermont Department of Health. Babies with the condition are at risk for coma or death.

    Birth Defects

    • Birth defects can occur if a pregnant woman is exposed to high levels of nitrates and nitrites. Intrauterine growth retardation, cardiac defects and nervous system defects can all occur, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Being exposed to nitrites and nitrates during pregnancy also is thought to put the baby at a greater risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome after birth and brain tumors in childhood, according to the EPA.

    Cancer Risk

    • Most medical experts believe that there is an increased risk of cancer among those who are exposed to nitrites and nitrates, although this theory has not yet been proven. However, studies have found that nitrates and nitrites increase the risk of cancer in animals, according to the Ohio Department of Health. It is believed that bladder cancer and colon cancer both may be linked to nitrite and nitrate exposure.

    Other Health Concerns

    • Exposure to nitrites and nitrates is thought to increase the risk of childhood diabetes, frequent urination, recurrent diarrhea, recurrent respiratory tract infections and spleen hemorrhaging, according to the EPA. Children who are exposed to these two ions may develop brain cancer. When an individual ingests a high amount of nitrites and nitrates, he or she may experience abdominal pain, blood in stools and urine, fainting, muscle weakness and, in severe cases, even death, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

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