A recent study has shown a significant link between increased levels of nitrates in the environment and increased deaths from common diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Type 2 diabetes.

The researchers compared mortality from Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease among 75 to 84 year olds from 1968 to 2005.

The researchers found that the death rates have increased much more dramatically than for cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease, which are also aging-associated.

Suzanne de la Monte, leader of the research team said: "We have become a nitrosamine generation. In essence, we have moved to a diet that is rich in amines and nitrates, which lead to increased nitrosamine production."

Earlier studies have shown that nitrosamines are highly reactive at the cellular level, altering gene expression and causing DNA damage. Studies have also proved their role as carcinogens.

The study has indicated that cellular alterations caused by nitrosamines are basically similar to those occurring with aging, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Type 2 diabetes.

The researchers have noted that in recent years there has been a great increase in the consumption of fast food, processed meats, and grains, along with use of nitrate in fertilizers. All these factors have contributed to increased nitrate consumption. This could be one of the reasons behind increased 150 fold deaths, between 1968 and 2005, among Alzheimer's patients.