Nitric oxide for blood pressure

High blood pressure is a common cardiac issue, and in fact nearly 1 out of every 2 adults suffer from hypertension. Research has show that nitric oxide, which is produced naturally by the body, can help lower blood pressure. Nitric oxide increases vasodilation, which means it helps relax blood vessels allowing them to widen and increase circulation. This is beneficial because the heart does not have to pump as hard, and nutrients and oxygen can get to the cells quicker and easier.

Besides lowering blood pressure, nitric oxide can decrease the risk of blood clots because it make platelets, which are a part of the blood, less sticky which decreases risk of blood cells clumping together and forming a clot. Additionally, nitric oxide supports brain health, aids the immune system, improves erectile dysfunction, and may enhance athletic performance.

Nitric oxide is not directly found in food, but foods high in nitrates, especially vegetables, are converted to nitric acid in the body. Foods high in nitrates are beets, arugula, leafy greens, celery, broccoli, radishes, carrots, and turnips. Additionally eating foods with arginine, such lean proteins, or citrulline, line watermelon, can also boost nitric oxide levels.

Supplements to increase nitric oxide are also common. It also can be taken in supplemental form through beet supplements, L-arginine supplements, and L-citrulline supplements