Nitric oxide (NO), a vital molecule produced in the human body, plays a pivotal role in regulating oxygen and nutrient delivery to every cell. Its significance extends beyond cellular communication and antimicrobial properties, as it acts as a safeguard against invading pathogens. Remarkably, NO was recognized as the esteemed “Molecule of the Year” by Science Magazine in 1992, with the three US scientists responsible for its discovery receiving the highly acclaimed Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1998.

The decline in nitric oxide production serves as the earliest indicator and catalyst for the progression of chronic diseases, including the leading cause of mortality across genders worldwide – cardiovascular disease. Nitric oxide is synthesized by two pathways. First, through the conversion of the amino acid L-arginine by a functional enzyme. Nevertheless, this pathway can become impaired due to various factors such as aging, oxidative stress, inadequate nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, diabetes, and high sugar intake, among others. The alternative pathway involves the utilization of nitrate and nitrite naturally present in select foods. Each pathway contributes around 50% to the overall NO production, compensating for the other. However, when the production of NO from both pathways becomes limited, the onset of health issues becomes inevitable.

This understanding highlights the compelling significance of nitric oxide and its multifaceted role in human physiology.

1.Nitric oxide is one of the most important molecules produced in the human body.

2.NO is a potent vasodilator that keeps your arteries open and clean from plaque build-up.

3.Nitric oxide is made by every cell in your body; however, production declined by 10-12% per decade starting in the early 20s. By age 40-50, we make only 50%.

4.Loss of NO production is associated with all major cardiovascular risk factors.

5.Prescription drugs, such as proton pump inhibitors, NSAIDS, and Cholesterol lowering Statin drugs block the production of NO.

6.Loss of NO production is due to the inability to convert L-arginine into NO so products that contain L-arginine or L-citrulline are not always effective at restoring NO production.

Nitric Oxide, why is it so important to heart, circulatory and cognition health?

1.Nitric oxide is one of the most important molecules produced in the human body.

2.NO is a potent vasodilator that keeps your arteries open and clean from plaque build-up.

3.Nitric oxide is made by every cell in your body; however, production declined by 10-12% per decade starting in the early 20s. By age 40-50, we make only 50%.

4.Loss of NO production is associated with all major cardiovascular risk factors.

5.Prescription drugs, such as proton pump inhibitors, NSAIDS, and Cholesterol lowering Statin drugs block the production of NO.

6.Loss of NO production is due to the inability to convert L-arginine into NO so products that contain L-arginine or L-citrulline are not always effective at restoring NO production.

7.NO has been shown to support healthy lowering blood pressure.

8.NO may help improve the aging function and make you feel younger.

9.NO is responsible for blood vessel dilation in the sex organs and is critical for optimal sexual function.

10.Foods like beets and green leafy vegetables are rich in nitrite and nitrate that can be converted to NO when consumed.