According to the National Institutes of Health, nitric oxide (NO) is an essential chemical that has a crucial role in the penile erection function. It is a neurotransmitter chemical that is synthesized in the body. It facilitates the dilation of the arteries, regulates signal transmission, triggers the release of hormones, etc. Low levels of this chemical in the body lead to hardening and narrowing of the penile arteries, which gives rise to erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence issues in men.
To restore the levels of nitric oxide in the body, one can make use of supplements. NO supplements can aid vasodilation in the penile arteries and effective signal transmission.
What are Nitric Oxide supplements?
Nitric oxide is a neurotransmitter chemical that ensures the healthy functioning of the arteries. It conducts vasodilation and increases the blood flow inside the arteries. Some physiological and psychological factors can affect the release of nitric oxide in the body. Low levels of nitric oxide can contribute to the damage of vascular health and give rise to blood pressure-related disorders. Therefore, to increase the levels of nitric oxide in the body, one can consume nitric oxide supplements.
Nitric oxide supplements are available over the counter. If consumed in safe doses, one can compensate for low levels of nitric oxide in the body. Given below are some best nitric oxide supplements, according to the Healthline website:
Nitrate
Nitrates are the compounds that get converted into nitric oxide in the body. First, nitrates are synthesized into nitrites which in turn get converted into nitric oxide molecules through a non-enzymatic process. As it is converted into nitric oxide, the vascular function and the metabolic function improve. Nitrates are present in a range of blood pressure medications, as well as in medications that treat conditions like heart disease (myocardial infarction) and chest pain (angina).
Nitrate supplements can boost the plasma nitrite concentration, which eases the blood flow and reduces blood pressure. To be on the safer side, consult your healthcare provider before using such supplements, as they might not be suitable for every individual.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These potent compounds reduce blood pressure by conducting vasodilation and expanding the blood vessels to allow more blood flow inside them. Dilation of blood vessels helps overcome the clogs and blockages of vascular passages and ensures the smooth flow of blood through them. Flavonoid supplements can increase nitric oxide production in the body and treat the symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
L-arginine
L-arginine is an amino acid that is helpful to the body for building protein. L-arginine is converted by the body into nitric oxide molecules, which relieves the muscle tension in the penile blood vessels and expands them to increase blood circulation in the penile. With this increased relaxation, the chambers inside the penile get engorged with sufficient blood and as a result, the erection function gets restored. Thus, L-arginine supplements can help restore the erection function.
L-citrulline
L-citrulline supplements can help subside the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. The body metabolizes L-citrulline and converts it into L-arginine, which in turn contributes to the synthesis of nitric oxide that improves vascular function and treats impotence issues.
Some studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health suggest that Panax ginseng can also treat the symptoms of ED. Ginseng is an herb that has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also treat fertility issues. Ginseng promotes the release of nitric oxide, which is a powerful substance that relieves muscle tension and relaxes the arteries in the penile. It overcomes blockages in the blood vessels and increases blood flow to the penile triggering stronger and firmer erections.
Are nitric oxide supplements safe?
Since these supplements are available over the counter and do not require any prescription to make the purchase, these products lack FDA approval, which makes them unsafe for use. To ensure safety you should use only well-researched and FDA-approved products for treating erectile dysfunction problems. And even if you are using these supplements, make sure you do not overuse them. But if you do not know how much it is required for your condition, then it is better to consult a doctor, that can prescribe you an appropriate dose that is safe for you.
Function of Nitric Oxide
Nitric oxide is a vasodilator chemical that stimulates the synthesis of cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) enzymes, which enhance muscle relaxation. This relaxation allows chambers inside the penile to fill with blood for the penile to attain erections. It in turn helps overcome arterial blockages by dilating their passages and managing the constriction.
The lowdown
Nitric oxide supplements can be helpful for enhancing the release of nitric oxide in the body. This chemical is essential for vascular health, as it maintains the health of the penile blood vessels, and as a result, the blood pressure gets reduced with an increase in the supply of blood to the penile.
