High blood pressure affects millions of people – but can nitric oxide help? Learn about the effects of nitric oxide and hypertension.
Today, there are various health supplements available if you want to give your health an extra boost. One category of supplements on the market is nitric oxide supplements.
Nitric oxide (NO) is a natural compound that helps blood vessels relax and widen, resulting in better circulation. You will usually find nitric oxide supplements presented as L-arginine and L-citrulline supplements.
How Nitric Oxide Supplements Work
L-arginine and l-citrulline are amino acids that serve various functions such as helping with protein building. These supplements are also precursors to nitric oxide, which means they convert into nitric oxide once inside the body.
According to researchers, nitric oxide helps relax and widen blood vessels. In other words, having nitric oxide in the body will help improve overall blood flow.
Many athletes take nitric oxide supplements to boost their energy levels, circulation, and heart health. Moreover, people also take these supplements to improve their blood pressure health.
Nitric Oxide and Hypertension
High blood pressure (or hypertension) is one of the leading risk factors in heart disease. To lower blood pressure, some of the best things you can do are exercise and eat healthily.
Furthermore, if you want to improve your overall blood pressure, you can try nitric oxide supplements. The following are some of the ways nitric oxide can affect your blood pressure levels.
Heart Health
According to a study in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, nitric oxide supplements provide various heart benefits. These benefits include reducing blood pressure, reducing arterial stiffness, and improving carotid artery blood flow.
Erectile Dysfunction
One side effect of having high blood pressure is experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED). However, since nitric oxide promotes circulation, these supplements may benefit those with ED.
Preeclampsia
Some pregnant women may experience preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy). Some studies suggest that taking l-arginine supplements over a prolonged period of time may help women with preeclampsia.
However, while the results are promising, more research is necessary to confirm the results.
Potential Risks
While most people who take nitric oxide supplements won’t experience side effects, they do happen. Some mild side effects to keep in mind include diarrhea, stomach pain, bloating, heartburn, headaches, nausea, and heart palpitations.
Furthermore, people who experience low blood pressure should avoid taking nitric oxide supplements to avoid lowering their blood pressure further. Doctors also suggest stopping taking these supplements before undergoing surgery.
Finally, nitric oxide supplements may interfere with certain medications and conditions. If you are currently taking blood pressure medication, consult with your doctor before adding nitric oxide supplements to your routine.
Improving Blood Pressure
It’s essential to get your blood pressure under control before it leads to heart disease. The best ways to do this is by regularly exercising and eating a heart-healthy diet.
However, if you want to give your health an extra boost, taking nitric oxide supplements may help. One of the most popular nitric oxide supplements available is L-arginine Plus.
It contains l-arginine, l-citrulline, and various key vitamins and minerals that help promote healthy blood pressure, heart health, and more. Try L-arginine Plus along with regular exercise and a healthy diet if you want to effectively support your blood pressure.