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You’ve likely been soaking up the sun by the beach, lake or pool as summer begins. And these lazy days are often accompanied by the smoky aroma of hot dogs on the grill.
On days like this we don’t have a worry in the world – let alone are we thinking about the health benefits and risks of hot dogs. But the truth is that in moderation and occasionally, a hot dog isn’t going to break your body – though it’s also important to know what exactly we are putting in our bodies. Mary Sabat, a nutritionist and owner of BodyDesigns, previously told USA TODAY what you need to know about hot dogs.
Are hot dogs healthy or unhealthy?
It’s complicated.
Like many foods, there are benefits and risks when it comes to hot dogs. Sabat says that one of the benefits of hot dogs is that they have protein. In an average hot dog, there are about 5 grams of protein.
She also describes some of the drawbacks. “The biggest concern with hot dogs is the presence of nitrates and nitrites, which are additives used to preserve and enhance the color of processed meats,” Sabat says. “During the cooking process or digestion, nitrates and nitrites can form nitrosamines, which are compounds that have been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.”
If you are concerned about nitrates or nitrites, you can still enjoy hot dogs. “To address the potential risks associated with nitrates, some hot dog manufacturers now offer nitrate-free or uncured versions of their products,” Sabat says. “These alternatives use natural sources of nitrate, such as celery juice, which can still form nitrosamines but in lower quantities. Nonetheless, it’s always a good idea to read the labels and choose options with fewer additives whenever possible.”
Which is healthier – a hot dog or a hamburger?
It depends. While a hot dog may have fewer calories, (about 120 to 150 calories, compared to a plain, 4 oz. hamburger patty, which has about 225 calories), a fresh hamburger patty isn’t going to contain those harmful nitrates. There’s also the issue of buns and toppings – ketchup, mayo and mustard can add calories and carbohydrates – but adding lettuce, tomato and onions can bring more nutritional value. Additionally, different cuts of beef or brands of hot dogs may have different amounts of fats and salt.
Is it OK to eat a hot dog every once in a while?
The bottom line: An occasional hot dog at a backyard BBQ is totally fine. “Overall, while hot dogs can be enjoyed occasionally, it’s advisable to prioritize a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, as these provide a wider range of nutrients and are generally considered healthier choices,” Sabat says.
