Nitric Oxide is a trending search term on TikTokwhile voices in the wellness space tout the effectiveness of supplements for improving physical performance, muscle recovery and endurance.

But dietitian Amber Core, of the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, said: News week: “In general, nitric oxide supplements are not recommended. These supplements do not contain nitric oxide, but rather are intended to increase nitric oxide production.”

Typically, these supplements contain L-citrulline, L-arginine, or both: amino acids (protein fragments) that support nitric oxide production in the body.

“Although some studies suggest that these supplements may improve cardiovascular health, research is limited and doctors generally do not recommend them,” Core said.

One such doctor who recommends the supplements to some of his patients is cardiologist Dr. Chris Davis of a nitric oxide supplement company called Humann, who said: News week: “I recommend supplements to my patients that help support nitric oxide (NO) production.

“For many, especially those interested in cardiovascular health or athletic performance, a nitric oxide supplement may be beneficial.

“As we age, our body’s natural ability to produce nitric oxide decreases and lifestyle factors like stress and poor diet can further impact (nitric oxide) levels. .”

The gas impacts blood flow, blood pressure, immunity and physical performance, Core said, helping our blood vessels relax so blood pressure goes down and helping fight infections.

Research indicates that nitric oxide has a relaxing and blood vessel-widening effect, but nitric oxide supplements show mixed results.

For example, a 2014 animal study found that nitric oxide supplements improved blood circulation in rats and rabbits, and 2005 research found they could be a safe and effective way to improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure in women with pre-eclampsia, a condition that affects pregnant women.

Research has also been conducted which suggests that nItric Oxide Supplements Could Help Treat Erectile Dysfunctionand this may be one of the reasons why Viagra is effective.

Research on the effectiveness of nitric oxide supplements for physical performance is limited and inconclusive. They appear to improve exercise tolerance and recovery in some young men, but no effect on athletesand little research has been conducted on women and the elderly.

“For those looking to improve their endurance in sports, or if you have a health condition and your doctor has recommended nitric oxide, you can get it in supplement form,” Core said.

However, she warned that it was important to read labels carefully on nitric oxide supplements because some versions could be “harmful to people with certain heart conditions,” for example if they contained caffeine.

Indeed, a 2006 study found that heart attack survivors were more likely to die if they took nitric oxide supplements, so the effects are not always beneficial.

Core and Davis agree that for those who want to support blood circulation and blood pressure without supplements, increasing their intake of certain foods could help.

“We can get an increase in nitric oxide production in our body from the foods we eat,” she said. “Some foods that increase nitric oxide include spinach, beets, bok choy, cauliflower, carrots and collard greens.” Davis added kale and arugula to the list.

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