Nitric oxide supplements can help with circulation and energy. Before taking them, learn what nitric oxide side effects you can experience.
The body naturally produces nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that helps increase blood flow through vasodilation. Nathan Jenkins, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Georgia, explains further:
“[Endothelial cells secrete nitric oxide], which line the inner walls of the blood vessels, and it communicates with the smooth muscle cells, triggering them to relax.”
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Foods that are rich in nitrate can help boost nitric oxide levels, as nitrates convert into nitric oxide once inside the body.
The nitric oxide process plays a role in various functions, such as controlling blood pressure and maintaining erections. Supplements contain ingredients, like l-arginine and l-citrulline, that help increase the body’s natural nitric oxide production.
Jenkins explains that “if you’re ingesting nitrate or L-arginine, the idea is that it’s supposed to stimulate the synthesis of nitric oxide in the endothelial cell.” Furthermore, the increase in blood flow may also help enhance workout endurance and recovery.
The workout benefit is because blood carries oxygen to working muscles, so better circulation may also mean better oxygen delivery.
What are some nitric oxide side effects?
What are some nitric oxide side effects?Since nitric oxide improves circulation, it can help lower blood pressure levels, especially in those with high blood pressure (hypertension).
However, this benefit can become a detriment in people with low blood pressure (hypotension).
People with hypotension may see their levels drop too low if they take nitric oxide supplements. The drop can make them feel dizzy and lightheaded.
Moreover, taking too much of these supplements may affect kidney function, especially if a person’s diet is already nitrate rich. According to Jenkins, “it might actually cause a reduction in performance, because your kidneys are stressed out and trying to process all this extra nitrate.”
The best way to avoid this side effect is to start at low doses and gradually increase the amount of supplement taken. NO supplements will usually have a recommended dosage on their product label, so it’s important to not go beyond it.
Does nitric oxide help with erectile dysfunction?
Kelly Jones M.S., R.D., explains that “nitric oxide itself does play a role in initiating and sustaining erections in males, but there are many other factors involved.”
NO supplements may help increase performance during sex by improving circulation to the penis. According to a recent study, l-arginine supplements may help boost the effects of common erectile dysfunction drugs as well.
How can I increase nitric oxide levels?
One of the first steps in increasing nitric oxide levels is to eat food that is rich in nitrate, such as leafy greens and beets. According to some studies, beet juice and beet powder are some of the best ways to experience nitric oxide benefits.
In addition to a healthy diet, you can add nitric oxide supplements to your routine.
One of the best nitric oxide supplements on the market is L-arginine Plus. It combines the power of l-arginine, l-citrulline, and various key vitamins and minerals to increase nitric oxide production.
In turn, nitric oxide widens the blood vessels, helping to increase circulation, oxygen delivery, blood pressure control, and more.
Best of all, L-arginine Plus comes in three tasty flavors so you can easily add it to your morning routine.
If you want a safe and effective way to support your circulation, blood pressure, cholesterol, energy levels, and overall health, try L-arginine Plus.