What is nitric oxide?
Nitric oxide is a compound naturally produced in the body. It acts as a vasodilator causing the blood vessels to relax and widen which supports the circulation of blood, nutrients and oxygen around the body. In supplement form nitric oxide is actually a combination of nutrients. The most commonly combined are amino acids l-citrulline and l-arginine. These ingredients are believed to stimulate the body into producing nitric oxide.
Where can nitric oxide be found in food?
Certain vegetables contain nitrate, which when consumed, are converted into nitric oxide in the body. Food sources of nitrate include beetroot, spinach and celery. Nitric oxide depletes quickly in the bloodstream, however eating foods that are rich in antioxidants can support the life of nitric oxide in the body. Foods high in antioxidants include:
Vitamin C
Leafy green vegetables: broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage
Citrus fruit
Red bell peppers
Tomatoes
Vitamin E
Sunflower seeds
Almonds
Avocado
Plant oils: rapeseed oil, olive oil, sunflower seed oil
Polyphenols
Dark chocolate
Berries: blueberries, blackberries, strawberries
Walnuts
Black and green tea
What is nitric oxide commonly used for?
Nitric oxide is often used to support vascular health and is commonly taken to improve exercise performance.
Why don’t we sell nitric oxide?
We do not sell a combination product; however, we do sell a range of amino acids including l-arginine. Due to insufficient studies into the long-term effects of l-citrulline supplementation, it is not possible to identify if it is safe to use for an extended period, so you will not find this product in our range.
What are the alternatives?
Our expert Nutrition Advisors suggest Colladeen® Original as an alternative to nitric oxide since it contains super strength polyphenols and vitamin C which supports the normal function of blood vessels.
Want to find out more about circulatory health? Click here.
Need FREE confidential nutrition advice? Contact our Nutrition Advice Team by clicking here.
Further reading… why not browse our Nutrition Buzz articles to find out more about circulatory Health.
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Keri
Keri Filtness has worked in the Nutrition Industry for 19 years. She is regularly called upon for her professional comments on health and nutrition related news. Her opinions have been featured by BBC3, Prima, Vitality, The Mirror, Woman’s Own and Cycling Weekly, amongst others. She has also worked one to one with journalists, analysing their diets and health concerns and recommending changes and additions, where appropriate.
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