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

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

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

“Although there are some studies that suggest these supplements might improve cardiovascular health, the research is limited and doctors usually don’t recommend them,” Core said.

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

“For many, especially those focused on cardiovascular health or athletic performance, a nitric oxide supplement can be beneficial.

“As we age, our body’s natural ability to produce nitric oxide declines, and lifestyle factors such as stress and poor diet can further influence (nitric oxide) levels.

Gas has an impact on blood flow, blood pressure, immunity and exercise, Core said, helping our blood vessels relax so blood pressure drops and helping fight infection.

Research indicates that nitric oxide has a relaxing, dilating effect on blood vessels, but nitric oxide supplements offer mixed results.

For example, a 2014 animal study found that nitric oxide supplementation improved blood flow for rats and rabbits and 2005 research found that it could be a safe and effective way to improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure in women with preeclampsia – a condition that affects pregnant women.

There has also been research suggesting nUtric oxide supplements may 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 have no effect on athletesand little research has been done on women and the elderly.

“For those looking to improve endurance in sports, if you have a medical condition and your doctor recommends nitric oxide, then it can be obtained as a supplement,” Core said.

However, she cautioned that it is important read labels carefully on nitric oxide supplements because some versions could be “harmful to those 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 may not always be beneficial.

Both Core and Davis agree that for those looking to support blood flow and blood pressure without supplements, increasing their intake of some foods might 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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