Nitric oxide is a molecule that plays a crucial role in many bodily processes. It is produced naturally in the body and is involved in many functions, including regulating blood pressure, immune system function, and brain function. You can boost nitric oxide naturally by eating the right foods.
One of the main benefits of nitric oxide is its ability to relax and dilate blood vessels, which can help improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure. This can have several positive effects on the body, including reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke, improving exercise performance, and promoting healthy blood sugar levels.
Overall, nitric oxide is an important molecule that helps maintain optimal health in the body. While it can be produced naturally through diet, certain supplements and lifestyle factors, such as exercise, can also help increase nitric oxide levels in the body.
Nitric oxide itself is not found in food. However, nitrates are found in certain foods, such as leafy green vegetables, beets, and some fruits and nuts. When consumed, the body converts these nitrates into nitric oxide through a process called nitric oxide synthesis (NOS).
When you eat foods high in nitrates, your body absorbs the nitrates into the bloodstream. They then enter cells, where they are converted into nitric oxide by NOS. This process occurs primarily in the cells lining the blood vessels and mouth.
Here is a list of 10 foods that are high in nitric oxide:
- Leafy green vegetables: spinach, kale, arugula and lettuce are all rich in nitrates, which are converted to nitric oxide in the body.
- Beets: These root vegetables are a great source of nitrates, which are converted to nitric oxide in the body.
- Berries: Many types of berries, including strawberries and blackberries, contain compounds that can boost nitric oxide production.
- Garlic: This aromatic spice can increase nitric oxide production in the body.
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, pistachios, and pumpkin seeds are all excellent sources of nitric oxide.
- Chocolate: Dark chocolate, in particular, contains compounds that can increase nitric oxide production.
- Watermelon: This juicy fruit is rich in an amino acid called citrulline, which is converted to nitric oxide in the body.
- Onions: Like garlic, onions contain compounds that can boost nitric oxide production.
- Pomegranates: These tart, sweet fruits are high in nitric oxide-boosting compounds.
- Nitrate-rich supplements: Some supplements, such as beetroot powder or nitric oxide boosters, are specifically designed to increase nitric oxide production in the body.
It’s worth noting that exercise has been shown to increase nitric oxide production in the body as well. This is because, during exercise, the body’s demand for oxygen increases, and the blood vessels dilate to allow more blood to flow to the muscles. This dilation is mediated by nitric oxide, produced by the cells lining the blood vessels in response to the increased demand for oxygen.
As you age, it’s essential to maintain healthy levels of nitric oxide in the body to support overall health and well-being. I keep my nitric oxide levels up by eating a healthy diet and exercising daily.
Best – Mike Cola
