Nitric oxide, also known as NO, is a signaling molecule produced naturally by the body that plays an important role in many physiological processes. In recent years, supplements claiming to boost nitric oxide levels have gained popularity, especially among bodybuilders and athletes. This article explores nitric oxide supplements in more detail, including their purported benefits, side effects to be aware of, and factors to consider before using them.

What is Nitric Oxide?

Nitric oxide is a gas produced by the endothelial cells that line the blood vessels. Once released, it activates an enzyme called guanylate cyclase which increases the levels of another messenger called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP causes the smooth muscles around the blood vessels to relax, resulting in vasodilation or widening of the blood vessels. Some key roles of nitric oxide in the body include:

- Regulation of blood pressure - As nitric oxide causes the blood vessels to relax and dilate, it reduces blood pressure.

- Improved blood flow - When blood vessels are widened, blood can flow more freely through the circulatory system. This boosts delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs.

- Immune function - Nitric oxide helps the immune system fight infections by acting as an antibacterial agent.

- Cellular communication - As a signaling molecule, NO plays a role in how cells communicate with each other.

- Erection capability - Nitric oxide is necessary for adequate blood flow needed to cause and maintain an erection in men.

How Nitric Oxide Supplements Work

Many commercially available Nitric Oxide Supplements contain ingredients like citrulline, beetroot powder or arginine which are believed to naturally increase nitric oxide levels in the body.

- Citrulline: This amino acid has been shown to raise plasma nitric oxide levels more effectively than arginine. It is converted to arginine inside the kidneys which is then used to synthesize NO in the blood vessels.

- Beetroot powder: Research suggests compounds called nitrates present in beetroot are converted to nitric oxide in the body, widening blood vessels and lowering blood pressure to some extent.

- Arginine: This amino acid acts as a precursor to nitric oxide as it provides the raw material (arginine) needed by NOS enzymes to produce NO. However, arginine is not very effective at raising NO unless taken in very high doses.

The theory behind nitric oxide supplements is that by increasing endogenous nitric oxide production pharmacologically, users may experience benefits like improved workout performance, greater pump during exercise, better cardiovascular health, and more frequent/stronger erections.