Nitrates or nitrates are chemical compounds that are widely used - for example as a fertilizer or active ingredient of explosives. Among other things, nitrates are used in the form of medications for a disease called angina pectoris. They can expand blood vessels.
How did the rats fall on vegetables?
The study found that rats treated with nitrates in the diet had lower levels of red blood cells (oxygen-bearing) compared to the control group of rats that did not receive nitrates. This is associated with a decrease in the amount of erythropoietin, which regulates the production of red blood cells. Excessive red blood cells (polycythemia) may cause blood clots to develop, leading to serious complications such as stroke.
The most interesting findings of the study are the fact that nitrates optimize the production of erythropoietin from the liver and kidneys. By reducing the blood density (ie, the number of red blood cells), but without disturbing the supply of the required amount of oxygen.
Nitrates yes, but with reason
The study involved rats, but leaf vegetables undoubtedly belong to our diet. It contains a number of nutrients that are supposed to help prevent cancer and heart disease. Among the nitrate-rich vegetables we include:
lettuce,
Beet,
carrot,
green beans,
spinach,
parsley,
cabbage,
Radish,
celery,
Bramble cabbage.
Nothing is exaggerated - excess nitrate can be poisonous. Therefore, there are strict limits for nitrate concentrations in drinking water, especially for infants.
Hormone maintaining balance
Erythropoietin is responsible for the regulation of red blood cells in mammals, thus satisfying the body's need for oxygen. Under conditions of great oxygen deficiency, for example in some serious illnesses or at high altitudes, the amount of erythropoietin is increased. This stimulates the formation of red blood cells, which then bring more oxygen. While red blood cells are needed to supply sufficient oxygen, they can also lead to increased blood density. This may aggravate blood flow and cause a blood clot. This leads to serious complications such as:
heart attack,
stroke,
Pulmonary embolism (blockage of the artery leading to the lungs).
Therefore, a balance must be created to achieve an optimal number of red blood cells and oxygen in the body.
Source: Heart in kondici.cz