Nitric oxide is the key to cardiovascular and brain health

Nitric oxide (NO) – It is a free radical that is actively produced in the human body. Nitric oxide plays an important role in signaling, smooth muscle contraction, bioenergetics, platelet adhesion, immunity, and regulation of cell death.

Evidence over the past 25 years confirms that the lack of proper regulation of nitric oxide levels leads to pathologies such as hypertension, cardiovascular dysfunction, neurodegeneration, arthritis, asthma and septic shock.

The role of nitric oxide and its benefits for the human body

1. Nitric oxide – it is the main signaling molecule in the body and is produced by the endothelial cells that line the arteries. Nitric oxide penetrates the underlying smooth muscle and acts as a powerful vasodilator. Therefore, nitric oxide plays an important role in the regulation of blood pressure and overall blood circulation. It also keeps the endothelium in shape by curbing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Unfortunately, atherosclerosis – root cause of heart disease and other disorders of the cardiovascular system – characterized by endothelial dysfunction and limited ability to produce nitric oxide. It's a vicious circle: diseased arteries can't produce enough nitric oxide, and low levels of nitric oxide – basis for further damage, hypertension and an increased risk of heart problems.

This explains why nitroglycerin is so effective against angina. It triggers the production of nitric oxide, which dilates narrowed coronary arteries, improving circulation and bringing oxygen to the heart muscle. Restoring nitric oxide production also lowers blood pressure and helps with erectile dysfunction. In fact, Viagra, Cialis and Levitra work precisely on the basis of the principle of nitric oxide.

2. In addition, nitric oxide is generated in the brain, where it takes part in the transmission of nerve impulses. That is why nitric oxide benefits include protection against dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. Nitric oxide is synthesized in white blood cells and is used as a weapon against bacteria, fungi, parasites and cancer cells.

    3.  In the gastrointestinal tract, nitric oxide relaxes smooth muscle cells and helps regulate intestinal motility and mucus secretion           stomach acid.

4. Nitric oxide is also involved in insulin signaling, bone remodeling, respiratory function, ATP (energy) utilization and mitochondrial biogenesis – creation of new energy centers of cells.

How to increase the level of nitric oxide in the body

With so many benefits to the health and function of the human body, nitric oxide needs to be increased to increase the body's ability to synthesize nitric oxide.

1. Food. Since nitric oxide is synthesized from an amino acid called arginine, it is recommended to consume foods rich in proteins, namely meat and poultry, to promote the production of nitric oxide. However, research also suggests that plant foods such as beets and leafy greens contain dietary nitrates and nitrites – compounds that stimulate the production of nitric oxide in the body. And given their potassium content, it's no surprise that a diet high in these plant-based foods reduces the risk of strokes, heart attacks, diabetes, and other health problems.                                 & nbsp;                                    
2. Beet juice. A great way to increase your nitric oxide levels in your body is to drink two glasses of beetroot juice a day, which can lower blood pressure, increase endurance during exercise, and improve blood flow to the brain.

Also, to increase the level of nitric oxide in the body, it is recommended to consume the following foods:

• tea;
• bow;
• grapes;
• and other flavonoid-rich foods that protect nitric oxide from free radical damage.

It is also necessary to remember that a diet high in fats and carbohydrates contributes to an increase in the level of asymmetric dimethylarginine – a substance that suppresses the production of nitric oxide.

3. Exercise. And, of course, do not forget about regular exercises. Muscles require more oxygen and nutrients to perform various exercises, which release nitric oxide, which relaxes the arteries and improves blood circulation. Through regular exercise, you can improve these mechanisms and protect yourself from diseases of the cardiovascular system.
4. Additives. Antioxidants play an important role in protecting the endothelium and nitric oxide from breakdown. There are also supplements that promote the synthesis of nitric oxide, increasing its level in the body. Among them: Pycnogenol, Phyllanthus emblica and Quercetin.

In general, if you want to protect against heart disease, hypertension, erectile dysfunction, or any of the other health problems mentioned above, take care to increase your nitric oxide levels.