What Is Nitric Oxide? Where Does Nitric Oxide Come From?

Nitric Oxide is  gas that is made in the body communicates with other bodily cells. It is a molecular compound made of one part nitrogen and one part oxygen. Many may believe that nitric oxide is nothing more than “laughing gas” given at the dentists office.  Other people associate it with the gas the race car drivers put in their cars to give them an extra boost of speed. However, in reality, nitric oxide has shown importance in the cellular activities listed below:

• assists the immune system at fighting off bacteria and defending against tumors
• helps behavior and memory by sending information within the brain
• reduces inflammation
• regulates blood pressure by dilating arteries
• improves your recognition of various physical senses
• improves sleep quality
• assists in gastric motility
• increases endurance and strength

Scientific Studies on Nitric Oxide

Some in the health product industry have claimed that there is no science behind the use of nitric oxide.  However, this is not the case. The Royal Society and Association of British Science Writers wrote in 1996 that:

“Summary research papers continue to flood the scientific journals and insights into the biological activity and potential clinical uses of nitric oxide (NO): a gas controlling a seemingly limitless range of functions in the body. Each revelation adds to nitric oxide’s already lengthy resume in controlling the circulation of the blood, regulating activities of the brain, lungs, liver, kidneys, stomach and other organs.

The molecule governs blood pressure through a recently recognized process that contradicts textbook wisdom. It causes penile erection by dilating blood vessels and controls the action of almost every orifice from swallowing to defecation. The immune system uses nitric oxide in fighting viral, bacterial and parasitic infections, and tumors. Nitric oxide transmits messages between nerve cells and is associated with the process of learning, memory, sleeping, feeling pain, and, probably depression. It is a mediator in inflammation and rheumatism.”

Since the time that the above text was written, products made from Nitric Oxide have continued to be praised by scientist and doctors.

Who Needs Nitric Oxide And How Do You Know If You Are Deficient?

Everyone needs some nitric oxide to fulfill important physiological processes. Nitric oxide supplementation is good for bodybuilders.

It can increase growth because of to improved and increased blood circulation in certain parts of the body.

Moreover, males who experience episodes erectile dysfunction may also find complimenting their diet with nitric oxide useful. Signs of low nitric oxide levels include erectile problems, weakness and extreme tiredness.

A good deal of nitric oxide health products have the amino acid Arginine-alpha-keto-glutarate included in their formulation.

How Much Nitric Oxide Should Be Taken? What Are The Side Effects?

Overdose is possible. Taking a supplement with too much arginine will often lead to stomach problems. No clear usage guidelines have been established to date. You best bet is to take a low amount for a week and increase the quantity until you find the amount that works best for you.

Some protein powders are also enhanced with amino acids, including arginine. Knowing this you need to pay attention to how much total arginine you are taking from all supplement sources.