Nitrate-rich leafy greens 'good for the heart'

ConclusionIt’s always a good idea to eat up your greens. This research suggests that one possible benefit is through the mechanism of nitrate “thinning” the blood and protecting against heart disease.  While the research is interesting, it’s a pity that no one thought to mention that this was a laboratory study on rats. It is important to remember that high levels of nitrates can be toxic, which is why there are safety limits for the level of nitrates in drinking water. High nitrate levels are especially harmful for infants.A healthy diet – including plenty of vegetables – and regular exercise are important for a healthy heart and weight.Analysis by Bazian. Edited by NHS Choices. Follow Behind the Headlines on Twitter. Join the Healthy Evidence forum. Links To The Headlines Now there's no excuse not to eat your greens: Leafy vegetables contain chemical nitrate that improves heart health and combats diabetes. Mail Online, November 4 2014Eat up your greens and slash the risk of diabetes and obesity. Daily Express, November 4 2014 Links To Science Ashmore T, Fernandez BO, Evans CE, et al. Suppression of erythropoiesis by dietary nitrate. The FASEB Journal. Published online November 24 2014
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Food/diet Heart/lungs Diabetes Obesity Source Type: news