L-arginine, or simply arginine, and l-citrulline (or citrulline) are amino acids that serve various functions. Both of these amino acids are known for their ability to increase nitric oxide production in the body.
While arginine is widely known, citrulline is not as well known, even though it provides multiple benefits. The body naturally produces citrulline, but once you reach a certain age or have a medical condition, you may not be producing as much as you need.
Combining Arginine and Citrulline
Vasodilation is the widening of blood vessels, which happens through the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls. Nitric oxide is a natural vasodilator that lets the blood vessels know when to relax, increasing blood flow and circulation.
How do arginine and citrulline come into the picture? Once inside the body, citrulline converts into arginine, which then helps increase the production of nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide (NO) is an essential molecule that helps blood vessels maintain their flexibility and maintains healthy blood pressure levels. However, if your system is not working properly, there is a higher chance of blood clot formation, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
In other words, NO plays a key role in preventing blood clots by improving circulation and also preventing blood aggregation. In addition, NO works as an antioxidant to reduce the possibility of immune cells sticking to artery walls. As a result, it helps reduce inflammation, which would otherwise lead to plaque formation and atherosclerosis.
Boosting Nitric Oxide
Some people have an impaired ability to produce the necessary amounts of nitric oxide in their bodies. This includes those with atherosclerosis, diabetes, and high blood pressure (hypertension). Other factors that inhibit adequate NO production include overconsumption of salt and aging.
However, by using arginine supplements, you can help the body produce more nitric oxide even if you have atherosclerosis. Moreover, new studies suggest that supplemental citrulline can help with nitric oxide production by increasing arginine levels.
How L-Arginine and L-Citrulline Support Better Blood Flow
While arginine is effective at increasing NO production, combining it with citrulline makes it more effective. The reason is that 50% of oral arginine converts into other amino acids after consumption. In other words, taking a supplement that combines both ensures that you get the amounts that you need.
When looking for a supplement to give you the extra NO that you need, look for one that combines both. In fact, one of the most popular NO supplements on the market is L-arginine Plus, which combines these two amino acids.
Through its blend of l-arginine and l-citrulline, it delivers an effective way to promote circulation, blood pressure health, and more. If you’re ready to give your blood flow the support it deserves, then try L-arginine Plus.