Nitric oxide doesn’t look like much. Like many of the molecules that keep the body running, it’s tiny and underappreciated. That doesn’t mean you can ignore its vital role or its potential as a supplement for various medical conditions, however (https://longevity.technology/lifestyle/what-is-nitric-oxide-benefits-uses-and-facts/) (https://longevity.technology/lifestyle/7-amazing-benefits-of-nitric-oxide-supplements-to-your-body/).
Let’s start with the basics. Nitric oxide is a colorless gas made from one nitrogen atom and one oxygen atom. Don’t confuse it with nitrous oxide, which is used as an anesthetic, or nitrogen dioxide, which is a pollutant. Nitric oxide has various chemical roles in industry, but we’re interested in its biological functions in the body.
Those biological functions include working as a messenger that signals various body parts. It’s also important for cardiovascular health because it can cause the blood vessels to relax. When they expand, your blood pressure lowers because it’s easier for the blood to flow. Nitric oxide stops arteries from stiffening up, protects the cells lining the blood vessels (the endothelium) and reduces the risk of blood clots.
Now, this doesn’t mean that everyone should be actively seeking nitric oxide supplements. Most people, unless they have a damaged liver, can produce their own nitric oxide. We can also take some in from our diet, particularly leafy greens or beets. For some people, supplements like L-arginine and L-citrulline may boost your nitrate levels in a beneficial way.
First, there are the already-mentioned cardiovascular effects on your blood pressure. Improved blood flow also means any exercise you do is likely to be more effective. You can train longer and harder, and that may make it easier to build muscle. Blood flow to the penis may mean better erectile functioning.
When more blood takes nutrients and oxygen to the brain, your cognitive performance may improve. Nitric oxide is also linked to our immune response, so it may make it easier to destroy pathogens.
If you need a nitric oxide boost, start by looking at adding nitrate-rich foods to your diet and adding more cardiovascular exercise to your routine so your body synthesizes nitric oxide better.
For those with a specific health objective and no risk factors, nitric oxide supplements may be beneficial. As always, talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement, especially if you have other medical conditions. If you experience headaches, stomach aches or your blood pressure drops too low, stop taking nitric oxide.
