UK researchers have recently discovered that fat in the stomach may hinder the anti-cancer effects of vitamin C. Scientists suggest that people should eat more vegetables and fruits and moderately control their intake of fatty meats.
Scientists state that their findings show a link between diet and specific stomach cancers. The nitrites found in saliva are converted from nitrates in the diet, and scientists believe they can trigger stomach cancer.
When we swallow nitrites and they enter the acidic environment of the stomach, they are naturally converted into nitrosating agents, which turn other chemicals in the stomach into carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds.
Bridget Benelam, a nutrition scientist at the British Nutrition Foundation, said: "Cancer is a complex disease that develops over many years and is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, so we shouldn't single out any one factor as 'causing cancer'. However, this research is very interesting." She mentioned that fat-compatible antioxidants in the body, such as beta-carotene, can also neutralize nitrosating compounds. She suggested: "This is another reason to emphasize the importance of a healthy, balanced diet. A healthy, balanced diet should not include fatty meats regularly and should include plenty of vegetables and fruits (the main source of vitamin C for the body)."