nitrates

Nitrates are chemical compounds that contain nitrogen and oxygen. They are commonly found in fertilizers, certain foods, and drinking water. In the environment, nitrates can help plants grow but may cause pollution if they accumulate, leading to issues like algal blooms in water bodies. Nitrates are also important in the human body, where they can convert into nitric oxide, promoting blood flow and cardiovascular health. However, excessive nitrate intake, particularly from contaminated water, can be harmful, particularly for infants, causing “blue baby syndrome,” a condition that affects oxygen delivery in the blood.