Manufacturers of products for athletes and bodybuilders have begun to increase the production of nitric oxide supplements. They claim that this product has a positive effect on increasing the body’s endurance during prolonged physical activity. But is it true? Let’s try to figure this out.
How Does It Work?
Nitric oxide is a gaseous substance produced by the human body to expand blood vessels and accelerate blood flow. This stimulation of blood flow in the body plays an important role in various processes such as erection, blood pressure control, and more.
It is worth noting that nitric oxide supplements offered by modern manufacturers do not contain nitric oxide. They include elements that stimulate its production by the body:
- L-arginine;
- L-citrulline.
Supplements also help to increase blood flow and accelerate the flow of oxygen to the muscles, as a result. This increases the body’s endurance, and a person can exercise for longer without feeling tired. In addition, accelerated blood flow plays an important role in muscle relief. They look more voluminous due to filling with blood.
Does It Really Work?
Studies conducted in order to identify the effect of nitric oxide supplements on endurance and performance have given conflicting results. That is why it is impossible to say unequivocally that they are really effective.
It was found that L-arginine and L-citrulline produced by the body actually contribute to an increase in NO production. However, experimentally it was not possible to establish the effectiveness of the same substances included in the supplements.
Studies that were aimed at establishing relations between consumption nitric oxide supplements and increasing performance showed that the degree of the endurance of the body actually increased after taking the supplement. But these studies did not take into account that nitric oxide also entered the body from food and other sources.
Possible Side Effect
Experts claim that the use of supplements in low dosages is safe for the body even if it does not lead to increased performance. However, it is recommended to avoid using nitric oxide supplements for people with hypertension as it can cause the following side effects:
- dizziness;
- weakness
Experts also do not recommend the use of supplements in high doses to people who have kidney disease or are following a diet with a high content of nitrates. Failure to comply with this recommendation will not only reduce performance but also provoke an aggravation of kidney problems since the load associated with processing a large volume of nitrates will increase. If you decide to use nitric oxide supplements you should strictly adhere to the dosages specified by the manufacturer.
It is worth noting that the risk of purchasing a low-quality product that has not passed the necessary research is very high. Therefore, you should give preference to nitric oxide supplements that are sold in well-known and reliable commercialized stores. Keep an eye on whether you will have any side effects while taking the supplement. If you notice that your body does not perceive it you should immediately stop taking the supplement.
Natural Alternative to Manufactured Products
Several studies have concluded that beet juice is the natural source of nitrates. Its regular use helps to increase the body’s endurance during training. Despite the fact that these studies are limited and require additional research, experts still consider beet juice a natural source of nitric oxide.