Have you ever heard of nitrates, and if you have, do you know what they are? If you answered that they keep processed meats fresh longer and provide them with a rich pink or red color, you are right, but what else do nitrates do? Somewhat less known is that nitrates occur naturally in fruits, vegetables, and grains, preventing nitrosamines formation.

As with everything, nitrates have their good side and, yes, a bad side. Learn about nitrates' health benefits, and side effects in What Are Nitrates? – The Good, The Bad, and The Alternatives. Remember, a healthy diet can diminish chronic illness and the onset of certain diseases, such as colorectal and gastric cancer.