Nitric Oxide (NO) is a molecule you might not think about daily, but it plays a vital role in your overall health. In fact, all of your 37.2 trillion cells need NO to survive. From supporting blood flow to influencing cellular function, NO is essential for a well-functioning body. Chief Cardiologist at humann, Christopher Davis, MD, FACC answers four common questions about this critical compound and why it’s so important to your health.
What does Nitric Oxide do in the body?
Nitric Oxide (NO) is one of the most important molecules produced in the human body. It acts as a vasodilator and signaling molecule, instructing blood vessels to relax and dilate. This relaxation allows for more efficient blood flow, ensuring oxygen and nutrients are delivered throughout the body. Since every cell needs oxygen to survive, boosting Nitric Oxide production supports not only your cardiovascular system but also overall health and vitality.
How does Nitric Oxide affect health?
Nitric Oxide (NO) is essential for life, serving as both a free radical and a neurotransmitter. It’s involved in critical functions such as immune response, platelet activity, and metabolic balance through mitochondrial biogenesis. These processes impact your health at the cellular level and beyond.
Healthy Nitric Oxide levels play a key role in maintaining cardiovascular health by supporting normal blood pressure, preventing arterial stiffness, and reducing the risk of vascular diseases. Conversely, low Nitric Oxide levels have been linked to conditions like hypertension, atherosclerosis, and metabolic disorders. Supporting NO production can reduce these risks and promote long-term vitality.
Can we get Nitric Oxide from our food?
Yes, certain foods can effectively support Nitric Oxide production. The body produces Nitric Oxide through two main pathways:
- The enzyme endothelial Nitric Oxide synthase (eNOS), which converts the amino acid L-arginine into NO.
- The dietary nitrate-nitrite pathway, where nitrate-rich foods are converted into NO.
Foods like leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula) and root vegetables (beets) are high in dietary nitrates, while food extracts like black garlic and grape seed extract can enhance eNOS activity to increase NO production.
However, getting enough dietary nitrates from food alone can be challenging. For example, beets vary widely in nutrient density—up to 500%—due to differences in growing conditions, weather, sourcing, and processing. This variability makes it difficult to consistently support Nitric Oxide levels through diet alone.
What are the benefits of taking a Nitric Oxide supplement?
For many people, particularly those focused on cardiovascular health or athletic performance, Nitric Oxide supplements can be a helpful addition to their routine. As we age, the body’s ability to produce Nitric Oxide naturally declines, and lifestyle factors like stress and poor diet can further reduce NO levels.
When choosing a supplement, it’s important to select one backed by proper scientific research and clinically studied ingredients.
I recommend humann supplements because they leverage cutting-edge, plant-based ingredients to support Nitric Oxide production in multiple ways. Each formula is guided by the principle that better blood flow leads to better overall health. Their scientifically formulated products address a range of health needs, helping you maintain optimal Nitric Oxide levels for a healthier, more vibrant life.
About Christopher Davis, MD, FACC
Christopher Davis, MD, FACC is a triple board-certified interventional cardiologist and the Chief Cardiologist at humann. With a passion for delivering top-tier, patient-centered care, Dr. Davis trained at Johns Hopkins/Sinai Hospital, where he was honored as Chief Medical Resident, before completing cardiology and interventional cardiology fellowships at the University of Virginia. As the Founder & CEO of Reveal Vitality, he is redefining the future of healthcare with a personalized, root-cause approach to longevity and cardiovascular wellness. His practice integrates state-of-the-art diagnostics, AI-driven fitness technology, and holistic health strategies to help patients not only manage symptoms but achieve optimal health, vitality, and longevity.