In recent years there has been a growing buzz in health circles about (NO) nitric oxide supplements and their benefits, particularly for athletes.
So, what is nitric oxide exactly? (NO) Nitric oxide is a molecule that is naturally produced by the body and it is important for many aspects of our health. Although it sounds similar, nitric oxide is not at all the same as nitrous oxide or “laughing gas” which is used for anesthetic purposes. Interestingly, nitric oxide supplements do not actually contain nitric oxide. Rather, they are made up of ingredients which are the building blocks to help the body to produce more of it. Foods do not directly contain nitric oxide either. They contain nitrates which the body then converts into nitric oxide.
The plus side of having good amounts of NO in our body results in many health benefits, such as:
- Heart health: NO in the body helps to widen blood vessels, improve circulation and lower blood pressure. By enhancing blood flow, nitric oxide reduces inflammation and prevents blood clots which supports heart health.
- Endurance: Better blood flow and increased oxygen delivery to muscles improves endurance, reduces fatigue and supports faster recovery from physical activity.
- Brain function: Nitric oxide supports cognitive health by improving blood flow to the brain which may help reduce the risk of memory loss and dementia.
- Reproductive health: By enhancing blood flow NO aids reproductive processes in both sexes including erectile function, ovulation and fertilisation.
- Other benefits: Additional benefits from nitric oxide include protecting the skin from sun damage and helping with collagen formation which provides support for bones and joints. NO also has anti-microbial properties which aids wound healing and immune function, protecting against infections and inflammation.
It is important to note that nitic oxide production in our bodies declines as we grow older. This means we may need help from the right foods or supplements to help maintain optimal levels.
So how can we boost our (NO) nitric oxide levels?
The Vitamin C and polyphenols found in fruits and veggies help maximize the conversion in the body from nitrates to nitric oxide.
Cooking can reduce the nitrate content in vegetables. So raw or lightly cooked vegetables are best. Regular exercise also enhances nitric oxide production
Foods which are high in nitrates include:
- Beetroot: Beetroot is one of the most researched and well known natural nitric oxide boosters available.
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale and lettuce are also among the best sources of dietary nitrates.
- Garlic: Contains allicin, a compound known to increase nitric oxide production.
- Citrus Fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons help increase NO levels because of their high vitamin C content, which enhances NO bioavailability.
- Pomegranate: Known to act as an antioxidant which can help protect nitric oxide from degradation.
- Dark Chocolate/Cocoa: Contains flavanols that help boost NO levels.
- Nuts and Seeds: Especially walnuts and almonds, which are rich in L-arginine, an amino acid that serves as a precursor for nitric oxide (NO) production.
- Meat and Seafood: Excellent sources of L-arginine and, in some cases, L-citrulline, both of which support the body’s natural synthesis of nitric oxide.
Did you know that your gut health and NO are connected?
Your body cannot properly convert nitric oxide without a healthy microbiome. Your gut flora is the good bacteria in your intestines that transform plant-based compounds into usable nitrates which then become nitric oxide.
At AGM Foods we are always looking for superfood ingredients which can help boost our health. When we process these ingredients with our unique fermentation process it makes them more easily digested so that our bodies can absorb them and we can reap the benefits.
Here is where we simply have to mention our Organic Veggie Flora Fix Powder. Not only does it contain some of the highest nitrate veggies such as beetroot, spinach and kale but when combined with the power fermentation, Organic Veggie Flora Fix Powder also helps promote good flora in the gut. Easy to sprinkle over any foods, mix with liquids or add to smoothies. This makes this superfood blend an amazing addition to everyone’s diet young and old!
Ensuring you have good levels of nitric oxide is not only about taking supplements or eating the right foods. It’s also about ensuring that your gut health is at its best. Because when your gut flora flourishes, your nitric oxide does as well.
Sources: González-Soltero R, Bailén M, de Lucas B, Ramírez-Goercke MI, Pareja-Galeano H, Larrosa M. Role of Oral and Gut Microbiota in Dietary Nitrate Metabolism and Its Impact on Sports Performance. Nutrients. 2020 Nov 24;12(12):3611. doi: 10.3390/nu12123611. PMID: 33255362; PMCID:
