These vegetarian friendly options are also lower in fat compared to traditional hot dogs. Just in case you are wondering what Sodium nitrates and nitrites are, they are compounds that are manufactured and utilized as food preservatives to both enhance food color and to extend shelf-life. Applegate's Great Organic Uncured Turkey Hot Dog and Waterhill Naturals Uncured Turkey Hot Dogs … Though the terms nitrates and nitrites are used interchangeably, the meat industry says it's mainly sodium nitrite that companies currently use to cure meats such as hot dogs, cold cuts and bacon. It’s a deciding factor for many people when they buy processed meat like bacon or lunchmeat, and it’s been hanging out in the back of my mind since I bought all-beef Hebrew National hot dogs last month. If properly prepared (hot off the grill or cooked to at least 165 degrees farenheit), it is safe to assume most of the bacteria has been killed. Hynes graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in foods and nutrition. Report 2 Reply. In addition to his current work, Dr. Amos is using his vast experience to launch Obie, a science-based app that offers personalized fertility advice. The good news about nitrates and nitrites is that it's easier now to find hot dogs that don't include them. Luckily, it's easy to satisfy your cravings with healthy, animal-friendly veggie dogs. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, nitrates in hot dogs and other processed meats prevent the spread a deadly toxin called botulism 1. They also add a salty flavour and improve the appearance of the meat products by giving them a red or pink color. However I agree – hot dogs are hot dogs and nitrates are nitrates – so it’s important to eat processed meats in small amounts, no matter what kind you buy. One of the few things I can stomach these days. As my family and I prepare to celebrate Labor Day with some delicious hot dogs and homemade buns, it’s hard to shake the thoughts about nitrates. Is It Safe to Eat Sushi While Pregnant?Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy, Dr. Amos Grunebaum, MD, FACOG is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and among the world's leading authorities on fertility and pregnancy. They function as preservatives, helping to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. February 2014 EllyD14 said: One particular bacteria, called Listeria, can pass from a mother to a fetus, causing miscarriage or stillbirth. Also known as frankfurters or wieners, hot dogs are cured meat made from pork, beef or poultry byproducts. Hot dogs are safe to eat during pregnancy, as long as they are cooked over 160 degrees F. Any processed meat, such as hot dogs, salami, or cold cuts, can potentially be contaminated with bacteria during the packaging stage. There are a lot of people, probably including your doctor, warned you to avoid hot dogs especially during pregnancy because there’s a possibility that you will consume bacteria that comes with it. They're types of salts, with nitrates naturally found in many vegetables and converted to nitrites in your body-or in the lab. Other Risks Associated With Hot Dogs During Pregnancy. I agree with this. An additional concern that is associated with the consumption of hot dogs is sodium nitrates. The reason why conventional hot dogs cause cancer is because they contain high levels of nitrates. Even major companies like Oscar Mayer and Ball Park are offering nitrate-free dogs. 1. Many popular brands like Oscar Meyer and Ball Park offer nitrate free options. A: In recent years, the level of nitrates contained in processed foods has decreased, and is considered safe for pregnant women. The purpose of Sodium nitrate in hot dogs is to combat Listeria, which it does do quite effectively, but the chemical has also been linked to heart disease and the possibility of developing pancreatic cancer. Amanda Hynes has more than 10 years of professional experience in fitness and wellness. Be cautious when eating hot dogs, luncheon meats, or deli meats unless they are properly reheated to steaming (or 160 degrees F.): Eating out at certain restaurants that provide deli meat sandwiches is not recommended for pregnant women since they do not reheat their deli meats. Amelia, Nitrates are nitrates, your body processes them the same way regardless of … The products used in hot dogs often have bacteria and precooking hot dogs and other processed foods will eliminate those bacteria. Hot dogs contain nitrites which are used as preservatives, primarily to combat botulism. You are pregnant and you like eating hotdogs. In addition to his current work, Dr. Amos is using his vast experience to launch Obie, a science-based app that offers personalized fertility advice. Nitrates are of particular concern with cured meats like hot dogs, says Mariana Stern, a cancer epidemiologist at the University of Southern California. Hot dogs are safe to eat during pregnancy, as long as they are cooked over 160 degrees F. Any processed meat, such as hot dogs, salami, or cold cuts, can potentially be contaminated with bacteria during the packaging stage. Precautions To Consider While Eating Hot dogs During Pregnancy. Brands like Applegate Farms sell uncured hot dogs (also sometimes with “no added nitrates”), which are by default healthier than nitrate-filled dogs, which some experts have linked to … Nitrates and nitrites are frequently added to processed meats like bacon, ham, sausages and hot dogs. The average hot dog contains about 50 mcg of nitrates per 100 g of meat, which carries about 9 mg of nitrites. One beef hot dog contains about 200 calories and 7 grams of protein. Her fitness column appears in the weekly publication, "The Red Springs Citizen." Nitrites play several roles: they maintain the pinkish meat coloration. 2. But is it safe to eat them in small amounts? As food preservatives, they prevent the formation of harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes and Clostridium botulinum. Sodium nitrates are used to cure the meat as they enhance its flavour, colour and also increases its life on the shelf. Sodium Nitrates and hotdog consumption An additional concern that is associated with the consumption of hot dogs is sodium nitrates. Nitrates and nitrites are key in hot dogs and other cured meats like ham and bacon: they prevent spoilage and block the growth of the bacterium that causes botulism (a foodborne illness).They're types of salts, with nitrates naturally found in many vegetables and converted to nitrites in your body-or in the lab. Although it is said that they can be eaten by expectant mothers when heated to 160-170 degrees Fahrenheit for two minutes, you may want to avoid hot dogs during pregnancy as they may still carry the Listeria bacteria. Look Out for Nitrates. Many popular brands like Oscar Meyer and Ball Park offer nitrate free options. Listeriosis is particularly dangerous during pregnancy because it can lead to miscarriage, premature delivery, infection or even death to the baby. Trader Joe's nitrate free all beef dogs are amazing. A study conducted by Dr. Ute Nothlings, et al, in the 2007 Journal of Epidemiology revealed that participants who consumed processed meats in large amounts had a high risk of pancreatic cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) and many researchers warn against eating too many processed meats because the nitrites and nitrates may increase one’s chances to develop cancer. Although ordering a hot dog at the baseball stadium may be off the menu, this doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy hot dogs. Sodium is not only bad for heart, but in the case of a pregnant woman, it can lead to complications in the delivery and birth defects in the unborn baby. Though the terms nitrates and nitrites are used interchangeably, the meat industry says it's mainly sodium nitrite that companies currently use to cure meats such as hot dogs, cold cuts and bacon. However, it also contains 12 grams of fat and 500mg of sodium. 1. Sodium Nitrite and Sodium Nitrate are food preservatives used primarily in processed meat products such as hot dogs, luncheon meats, ham, bacon, corned beef (spam), and in smoked fish. Even though hot dogs are considered precooked, it is important that you cook them sufficiently in order to eliminate the presence of bacteria. I wouldn't be too concerned with nitrates unless you plan on eating like 50 hot dogs in one sitting. Sodium nitrates and nitrites are compounds manufactured and used as food preservatives to enhance color and extend shelf-life. As my family and I prepare to celebrate Labor Day with some delicious hot dogs and homemade buns, it’s hard to shake the thoughts about nitrates. Women are cautioned against consuming ready-to-eat foods such as cold cuts, soft cheeses and hot dogs during pregnancy because of the possibility of consuming harmful bacteria. Into astrology? The levels are pretty low, so you would have to take in quite a few hot dogs to do any damage. Sodium nitrates and nitrites are compounds manufactured and used as food preservatives to enhance color and extend shelf-life. Packaged hot dogs are usually rich in preservative nitrates and nitrites that can be harmful. The good news about nitrates and nitrites is that it's easier now to find hot dogs that don't include them. Read Dr. Amos' full bio, the book about him "Lessons in Survival: All About Amos," and a fictionalized account of his father's life in the novel, "Through Walter's Lens.". A. © 2001-2020 BabyMed.com - All Rights Reserved. Hot dogs are high in sodium, nitrates and fats. Human Health Cancer. Nitrates and nitrites are key in hot dogs and other cured meats like ham and bacon: they prevent spoilage and block the growth of the bacterium that causes botulism (a foodborne illness). They seem to be the safer bet but the possibility of contamination cannot be ruled out. Learn more about Obie here. Hot Dogs Hot dogs are one of the most processed sources of meat on the market. Most hot dogs contain nitrates (also found in luncheon meat) which are used to help preserve the meat and combat botulism. Hot dogs are best avoided during pregnancy when your immune system is weak and you and your baby become vulnerable to foodborne illnesses. Hot dogs and deli meat That double turkey, salami and onion with extra mustard might be tempting your pregnancy-crazed appetite, but it may not be the healthiest option out there right now. There are local health food stores that sell nitrite-free chicken and turkey hot dogs. While there has been a lot of controversy regarding the effect of nitrates on the human body, there has not been any positive indication that nitrates harm the developing baby. Our new app provides expert, personalized fertility insights and guidance. Those particularly susceptible to listeriosis include elderly adults, small children, anyone with weakened immune functions and pregnant women. Hot dogs are high in sodium, nitrates and fats. ;;) As far as what brand you buy, that is up to you. The risk for listeriosis is greatest when consuming uncooked deli meats; if not heated properly, bacteria will continue to thrive. 2. The hot dogs purchased from street vendors are especially dangerous and can be contaminated because the water they are heated in is well below 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Sodium Nitrite and Sodium Nitrate are food preservatives used primarily in processed meat products such as hot dogs, luncheon meats, ham, bacon, corned beef (spam), and in smoked fish. Are Cold Cuts & Deli Meats Safe in Pregnancy. Nitrates are a no-no when pregnant because they can consume carcinogenic nitrosamines in the body. With careful preparation, women may continue to enjoy hot dogs throughout pregnancy without fear of illness. Nitrites and nitrates are added to processed meats like deli meats and hot dogs as a preservative against certain bacteria and to preserve color. Are hot dogs without nitrates safe? As a mom-to-be, you'll want to steer clear of those foods that have been preserved with nitrates and nitrites, chemicals used in food preservation that (in high amounts) aren't good for a developing fetus. A good example is the meat-free hot dogs rich in vegetables, grains, and soy. Hot Dogs Alternatives During Pregnancy To eradicate the risk associated with bacteria and sodium nitrate present in hot dogs, you can consider other healthy options. Listeria monocytogenes is a genus of bacteria found in cold-cut deli meats, soft cheeses, and cured meats. edemoss member. Sodium nitrates are used to cure the meat as they enhance its flavour, colour and also increases its life on the shelf. Sodium Nitrates and hotdog consumption. Here are a few things to remember before you eat a hot dog during pregnancy. While hot dogs are safe to eat during pregnancy, they may not be the best choice of food nutritionally if consumed on a regular basis. The World Health Organization (WHO) and many researchers warn against eating too many processed meats because the nitrites and nitrates may increase one’s chances to develop cancer. Employed in food preservatives, it another factor to consider if you want to eat hot dogs when you are pregnant. The rare, but life-threatening bacterium grows in the tightly packed environments of processed meat. I think the general rule is one hot dog a week. Often garnished with ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, onion, cheese or chili, they are a delight for your taste buds. The best way to avoid this altogether is to purchase hot dogs that are nitrate free. Even major companies like Oscar Mayer and Ball Park are offering nitrate-free dogs. I'm a hot dog hoar. Yet, even if you feel a craving for hot dogs during pregnancy it is better to avoid them, especially if they are not completely heated above 160 degrees Fahrenheit. They can be spicy or mild and may be made from chicken, pork, beef, and turkey. Applegate's Great Organic Uncured Turkey Hot Dog and Waterhill Naturals Uncured Turkey Hot Dogs are healthy choices. This bacteria is responsible for causing listeriosis, an infection characterized by flu-like symptoms and gastrointestinal distress. The best way to avoid this altogether is to purchase hot dogs that are nitrate free. Check out our Zodiac Center! These bacteria cause a disease called Listeriosis which can cause negative effects in the unborn baby which can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. It is also suspected that nitrites can combine with amines in the human stomach to form N-nitroso compounds. She is an avid runner and a certified pilates and yoga instructor who enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for fitness with others. They are cured using salts that contain high levels of nitrates. My baby lived to tell about it I should find some nitrate free hot dogs because I would love to enjoy more! Do not allow the hot dogs to become cold or you risk further contamination. As food preservatives, they prevent the formation of harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes and Clostridium botulinum. Nitrates are a no-no when pregnant because they can consume carcinogenic nitrosamines in the body. Read More:Are Cold Cuts & Deli Meats Safe in Pregnancy? 1 2 While there has been a lot of controversy regarding the effect of nitrates on the human body, there has not been any positive indication that nitrates harm the developing baby. Copyright 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Reply The Doc December 31, 2018 at 7:46 am. Human Health Cancer. One beef hot dog contains about 200 calories and 7 grams of protein. Hot dogs contain sodium that is higher than what is usually allowed during pregnancy. NaturalNews.com: Processed Meat Consumption Results in 67% Increase in Pancreatic Cancer Risk, Says New Research. One regular, six-inch hot dog bun alone is known to contain almost 140 calories, 2.5g of fat, 28g carbohydrates, 4g of protein and less than 270mg sodium . Also, the cheese that they are garnished with can harm the pregnant mother and the fetus if it is not pasteurized- bleu cheese, Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, Feta, Gorgonzola and Mexican style cheeses that include queso blanco and queso fresco, for instance, are often not pasteurized and thus are unsafe for pregnant mothers. Hot dogs are an American favorite at barbecues, baseball games and social gatherings alike. The average hot dog contains about 50 mcg of nitrates per 100 g of meat, which carries about 9 mg of nitrites. Q: I know that while pregnant you should generally avoid foods that contain nitrates, such as hot dogs and luncheon meats. Hot dogs are also high in fat and salt that are not good for your body or your baby. Uncured Hot Dogs. And since hot dogs are cured with nitrates, they carry greater health risks than other meat products. Also, the cheese that they are garnished with can harm the pregnant mother and the fetus if it is not pasteurized- bleu cheese, Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, Feta, Gorgonzola and Mexican style cheeses that include queso blanco and queso fresco, for instance, are often not pasteurized and thus are unsafe for pregnant mothers. Properly cooked hot dogs are safe for pregnant women when consumed in moderation. Hot dogs and other processed meats have been repeatedly implicated in greatly increased risk of colon cancer. Additional concerns associated with hot dog consumption are sodium nitrates. Hot dogs are one of the most processed sources of meat on the market. Nitrites and nitrates are added to processed meats like deli meats and hot dogs as a preservative against certain bacteria and to preserve color. During the cooking process, nitrites combine with amines naturally present in meat to form carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds. Nitrates also give hot dogs the pinkish brown color you associate with the food. Packaged hot dogs are usually rich in preservative nitrates and nitrites that can … Additional concerns associated with hot dog consumption are sodium nitrates. If you are pregnant and happen to like to eat hot dogs, you probably have heard a few warnings. They are low in fat, low risk of bacterial contamination, and vegetarian-friendly. Listeria monocytogenes can be destroyed with heat. A: Hot dogs or Frankfurters may be fully cooked, cured or smoked. Just in case you are wondering what Sodium nitrates and nitrites are, they are compounds that are manufactured and utilized as food preservatives to both enhance food color and to extend shelf-life. 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Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, all Reserved! That you cook them sufficiently in order to eliminate the presence of bacteria you would have take! Meats ; hot dogs pregnancy nitrates not heated properly, bacteria will continue to enjoy hot or. In 67 % Increase in Pancreatic cancer risk, Says new Research colon cancer dogs cause cancer is because contain! Enhance color and extend shelf-life stomach these days that do n't include...., such as Listeria monocytogenes is a genus of bacteria the risk for listeriosis is dangerous! Safer bet but the possibility of contamination can not be ruled out generally avoid foods contain! Pass from a mother to a fetus, causing miscarriage or stillbirth cheese or chili, prevent. And vegetarian-friendly of Science in foods and nutrition Cold or you risk further contamination consume carcinogenic nitrosamines in summer.
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