You have probably heard of nitric oxide supplements. They are "all the rage" these days. But as a conscientious consumer, you also wonder about the benefits and risks of these supplements. And obviously, you wonder if there's anything to all the hype about nitric oxide supplements body-building capabilities.
While we will be reviewing plenty of the top NO products individually here at UltimateFatBurner.com (as an example, see our reviews for NO-Xplode, HorsePower, SuperPump 250) it's important we do a little "leg-work" first. In order to fully understand what these supplements involve, it is first important to know a little bit about the chemistry behind them.
Nitric oxide is defined as a gas which is used by the body in order to communicate with cells within the body. Enzymes break down the amino acid arginine, which leads to the production of nitric oxide, which consists of one atom of nitrogen and one atom of oxygen.
Nitric oxide has proven to be valuable in controlling blood circulation and enhancing the functioning of the brain, lungs, kidneys, and liver. Nitric oxide facilitates the transmission of messages between nerve cells, among other attributes. A number of doctors worldwide extol the virtues of nitric oxide, while athletes credit it with helping them to build muscle.
Bodybuilders are particularly interested in the fact that nitric oxide enhances blood flow. This is because better blood flow delivers additional nutrients to muscles. As a result, the muscles become larger. Nitric oxide also lessens inflammation, meaning that it can decrease the pain that bodybuilders experience when they expose their muscles to heightened stress.
In addition, nitric oxide can affect the release of adrenaline.
You may not realize it, but everyone needs nitric oxide in order for their bodies to function properly. Nitric oxide is especially helpful for bodybuilders because of its ability to enhance growth.
While taking nitric oxide can be beneficial, it is important not to overdose on it. Ingesting too much nitric oxide can cause diarrhea and nausea. However, it is often unclear how much nitric oxide is too much. Therefore, doctors recommend taking a small amount for one week, then slowly increasing the dosage to as much as you can tolerate.
Scientific research indicates that arginine can, indeed, lead to nitric oxide synthesis. This is particularly true for those with elevated cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes, as well as for individuals who smoke. If you take supplemental arginine, it will most likely increase nitric oxide production for healing wounds and oxidative stress. Given the fact that muscle recovery after exercise is similar to wound healing and that oxidative stress rises with exercise, fans of nitric oxide say it is likely that the supplement will benefit your muscle-building.
Physicians recommend that you take nitric oxide supplements twice each day on an empty stomach. One supplement should be taken in the morning, while the other should be taken about a half-hour to an hour before you lift weights.
Supporters of nitric oxide supplements say they can increase fast-twitch muscle fiber strength and can enhance the output of your muscles. Some bodybuilders also report that they notice an increase in their endurance after taking nitric oxide supplements.
However, some critics say there is little scientific evidence to suggest that nitric oxide is effective as a bodybuilding supplement. They say that you might be better off investing in another kind of supplement. If you’re wondering whether nitric oxide is right for you, it is best if you consult with your family physician for a definitive answer.
Read part II of Nitric Oxide (NO) article!
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