Nitric oxide is a molecule produced naturally by the human body and is one of the most important molecules for blood vessel health. It is a vasodilator, meaning it relaxes the inner muscles of your blood vessels, causing the vessels to widen. In this way, nitric oxide increases blood flow and lowers blood pressure. Supplements that increase nitric oxide production may also be beneficial for managing certain health conditions. Here are some of the uses and benefits of nitric oxide:

• Improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure: Nitric oxide can increase blood flow and reduce blood pressure.

• Treating erectile dysfunction: Nitric oxide supplements, such as L-citrulline, may help treat erectile dysfunction by increasing the production of nitric oxide.

• Enhancing exercise performance: Nitric oxide supplements have become popular among athletes and recreational gym-goers. They often contain several ingredients that are said to increase nitric oxide, such as nitrate or the amino acids L-arginine and L-citrulline. In many analyses, nitrate has been shown to improve exercise performance in cyclists, runners, swimmers, and even kayakers.

• Promoting heart health: According to an article published in the journal Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, taking nitric oxide supplements offers several heart-boosting effects. These include reducing arterial stiffness, reducing blood pressure, and improving carotid artery blood flow.

• Helping nerve cells communicate: Nitric oxide can help nerve cells communicate.

• Improving immunity: Nitric oxide may improve immunity.

It is important to note that while there are many potential uses and benefits for nitric oxide supplements, there is not a lot of research to support some of the claims. Therefore, supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian.