… Vitamin D3 Chews Studies show that omega-3s help reduce the expression of cellular adhesion molecules, which are proteins that allow cells to stick to one another and their surroundings. Antioxidants are incredibly important, but most people don't really understand what they are. [39], The last nitric oxide food on our list is the heart-healthy pomegranate. These fruits are associated with an impressive amount of health benefits, including their ability to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Khatri et al. Some groups of people, however, like pregnant women, may need an L-arginine supplement. Nitric oxide is a chemical compound in the body that relaxes the blood vessels and keeps them flexible, allowing them to dilate, boosting blood flow, and helping to control blood pressure. [23], It’s important to note that while 20 milligrams daily is considered safe, some people have side effects including stomach problems, even at lower doses. On top of aging, things like smoking, poor diet and inactivity can also cause natural nitric oxide levels to decrease. Eating fiber-rich foods like beans is essential for preventing atherosclerosis (9). Nitric Oxide is even more important after 40. Beets are rich in dietary nitrates, which your body can convert to nitric oxide. Your body releases cellular adhesion molecules in response to inflammation, and they’re a driving force behind clogged arteries (16, 17, 18, 19). Your kidneys change L-citrulline into another amino acid called L-arginine and a chemical called nitric oxide.. SuperBeets® Chews Eat foods that are rich in polyphenols. ), You probably know that citrus fruits — such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits — are great sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is great for your immune system, but this crucial vitamin also increases the bioavailability of NO, which is your body’s ability to absorb and use the molecule. Beets. This article explains it all in human terms. Beans are packed with fiber and well known for their heart health benefits. A new study finds a surprising link between the rinse and nitric oxide—meaning nitrate supplements like beet juice may be affected, too. Its always handy to have a healthy snack on hand to satisfy a sweet tooth, or an afternoon energy slump that might result in you reaching for a candy bar. Read more. A healthy diet rich in nutrient-dense foods may help reduce your risk of developing clogged arteries. This may be why citrus consumption is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke — two conditions linked to atherosclerosis (29). Polyphenols in the pomegranate assist in converting dietary nitrite to nitric oxide. Grab & go grape seed extract chews. Ignarro LJ, Byrns RE, Sumi D, de Nigris F, Napoli C. Pomegranate juice protects nitric oxide against oxidative destruction and enhances the biological actions of nitric oxide. Beet juice is popular with athletes and bodybuilders as a pre-workout boost. These delicious truffles combine a beets powder with collagen, along with dark chocolate or cacao nibs for an extra NO boosting effect. You’re more likely to develop atherosclerosis if you (1, 2, 3): On the other hand, following a diet rich in certain foods like vegetables, fruits, and fish has been shown to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease (4). Studies show that eating cruciferous vegetables is associated with a decreased risk of atherosclerosis. Here are 15 foods that may help prevent clogged arteries. A study that included 2,217 participants found that eating chocolate was associated with less atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries. SuperGrapes Chews [3,4], Over 160,000 scientific articles have been published about various aspects of nitric oxide. That means it helps the inner muscles of your blood vessels to relax and widen, enabling your blood to move freely, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your whole body more efficiently. Eat Vegetables High in Nitrates. Cocoa and dark chocolate products are not only delicious but also may help ward off atherosclerosis. The study found that 13.3% of people who ate less fish had atherosclerosis in their carotid arteries, which deliver blood to the brain, compared with just 6.6% of those in the fish-eating group (20). This article lists 15 foods that may help prevent clogged arteries. But too much nitric oxide can be harmful. Learn about HDL and LDL cholesterol, risk factors, and treatment. Spices, including ginger, pepper, chili, and cinnamon may help protect against clogged arteries (30). The human body creates NO from dietary arginine and nitrate.NO plays a major signaling role in vascular relaxation, and elevated levels are associated with better blood flow and lower … We pulled together a list of nitrate-rich foods to enhance nitric oxide production. They are high in fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, including calcium and magnesium. These arteries transport oxygen-rich blood to the heart (52). The study defined dark chocolate as having more than 85% cocoa content. Atherosclerosis occurs when fatty deposits accumulate along artery walls. A small study in which eight men drank 300ml of watermelon juice daily for two weeks showed increased bioavailability of NO. Include sources of vitamin C like oranges, kiwi, bell peppers and broccoli. [5]. [34,35,36]. Citrus flavonoids can decrease inflammation and help prevent free radicals in the body from oxidizing LDL (bad) cholesterol. [21], A small human study involving 8 patients with cystitis had increased NO levels after two weeks of daily L-arginine supplements. Tomatoes and tomato products contain plant compounds that may be particularly helpful for reducing the development of atherosclerosis. These help increase nitric oxide production and decrease inflammation in the arteries, which may help improve physical function in people with atherosclerosis (54). [2], In contrast, plant nitrates are beneficial, may contain vitamin C, and can prevent the formation of nitrosamines. During this stressful period, it’s important to pay special attention… Read more, By: The HumanN Editorial Team BeetElite Athlete Lindsay Webster gives you a quick, at-home workout you can do without equipment.Lindsay Webster is a competitive OCR athlete, mountain biker, XC skier and runner. High cholesterol levels can clog blood vessels and cause heart attack or stroke. Onions contain sulfur compounds that scientists think may help prevent blood vessel inflammation, inhibit the clumping together of platelets in the blood, and increase the availability of nitric oxide (25, 26). What’s more, these tiny and versatile foods may help prevent clogged arteries. The best source of dietary nitrate is, without a doubt, organic leafy vegetables. BeetElite® Canister The second source of nitric oxide is nitrates, which are present in foods like spinach, lettuce, and beef. Plus, the handful of spinach may also boost your NO levels. Nitric Oxide. According to one study in 38 adults, consuming a beetroot ... 2. salmon, swordfish) Meats (e.g. And now, … There aren’t really a lot of foods that decrease nitric oxide levels. Be careful when using beet juice or a beets supplement, as some products have high levels of added sugar. By Selene Yeager Sep 17, 2019 10 nitric oxide foods. The Mediterranean diet is rich in high fiber vegetables, beans, and olive oil. Oats also contain antioxidants called avenanthramides, which may help inhibit inflammatory proteins called cytokines, as well as adhesion molecules. Research has also shown that eating nuts and seeds reduces blood sugar levels and may help protect against diabetes, a known risk factor for atherosclerosis (43, 47). [20]. Inflammation in the blood vessels leads to decreased nitric oxide production. One study in 40 people found that eating tomato sauce with olive oil had the greatest effect on reducing adhesion molecules and inflammatory proteins, compared with raw tomatoes and plain tomato sauce. A small study found that citrulline supplements may help promote NO synthesis within a few hours, but subjects may need to take the supplements for longer to see benefits in blood flow. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Eating omega-3-rich fish may help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. This natural and not-so-natural decrease has sparked much of the interest in nitric oxide … It has long been associated with improved heart health. Consuming flavonoid-rich citrus fruits may decrease inflammation … [31], Some studies suggest that vitamin C might also increase the amount of nitric oxide synthase, an enzyme essential for NO production. The discovery about its role in the cardiovascular system even resulted in the Nobel prize ().The gas is involved in vasodilation, respiration, neurotransmission, hemostasis (prevention of bleeding), and immune response ().However, inhaling nitric oxide … All rights reserved. Increasing production of nitric oxide … This article reviews everything you need to know about…. So I made a list of 10 (natural) foods with nitric oxide that can really help you out, plus a bonus one at the bottom. Nitric oxide is one of the most important molecules that your body produces naturally. Additionally, eating nuts and seeds may help improve blood vessel function and protect against heart disease (48, 49). And one of the best ways to promote healthy NO is to consume dietary nitrates. Official sponsor of your personal best. It’s a chronic inflammatory disease with numerous risk factors. By helping blood vessels to dilate, NO promotes healthy blood flow, which may have many health benefits — including lower blood pressure, better brain function, and improved athletic performance. If you can’t produce enough NO, you may have increased risk of serious health conditions, such as heart problems, diabetes, and erectile dysfunction. A test-tube study on pomegranate juice showed that it prevented NO being damaged by oxidative stress. Atherosclerosis is the underlying cause of about 50% of deaths in Western countries (1). People who fail to consume adequate amounts of healthful foods, such as beets, spinach, arugula, cabbage, etc., may suffer from a deficiency in dietary nitrates, essentially robbing themselves … This may help prevent atherosclerosis (40, 41). Research has shown that a diet rich in these popular veggies may protect the arteries. A study that included 716 people with coronary artery disease found that those who consumed oat fiber regularly had lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and inflammatory markers than those who did not eat oat fiber (42). (Pro tip: the less sugar content in your beets supplement, the better. Lower cholesterol Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants found in dark-colored fruit like grapes, berries, red wine and chocolate. These and other spices have anti-inflammatory properties and may help scavenge free radicals, improve blood lipid levels, and reduce the clumping together of platelets in the blood (30). One review of 26 high quality studies found that diets that included about 1 serving (130 grams) of beans daily were associated with significantly lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol compared with control diets (12). Oats are an excellent choice for those who have atherosclerosis or are trying to prevent clogged arteries. Here's the best way to maintain a heart-healthy level. Atherosclerosis is a narrowing of the arteries caused by a buildup of plaque. Sex, Nitric Oxide, and an Unhealthy Lifestyle Conversely, when the endothelium senses high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, or emotional distress, it releases less nitric oxide… This is a detailed meal plan for the Mediterranean diet. The rich red seeds of pomegranates are full of antioxidants that promote the formation of NO and protect it from damage. Eating beans is an excellent way to keep cholesterol levels in check, thereby reducing your risk of clogged arteries. [13] Some of the best leafy greens to eat are: Eating dark chocolate (search for 70-80% cocoa) is a decadent way to boost nitric oxide levels. As we age, our nitric oxide levels naturally decrease. Learn more about N-O and performance nutrition. People who have a low level of nitric oxide generally just aren’t eating enough healthy foods. have reported temporal association of nitric oxide levels after whole lung allergen challenge and observed, similarly to us, that FeNO levels decreased significantly from baseline, between 2 to 5 hours after the challenge, and returned to normal levels … The 10 Best Foods to Boost Nitric Oxide Levels. Nitrate, a compound found in certain vegetables, is one of the many reasons vegetables are healthy for you. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Flax seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition. In this article, we’ll explain why nitric oxide is essential for your health, outline the best sources of dietary nitrate, and show you how to include them in your daily diet. 5000 IUs of Vitamin D3 to support immune health, mood and more. You can increase your spice consumption easily by adding these versatile flavorings to oatmeal, soups, stews, and just about any other dish you can think of. A number of studies found that increasing your intake of L-arginine can help increase the amount of NO in your body. 13 Foods That Can Lower Your Blood Pressure. All of the foods listed above offer many other benefits as well. [32,33], By boosting NO levels, citrus fruits may also help lower the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease and help optimize brain function. As well as eating citrus fruits whole, or juicing them, try adding the zest to your salad, seafood, or fish dish to boost your intake. Your body needs dietary nitrates to create nitric oxide (NO), which is essential for heart health. Research has also found an association between dietary nitrate intake and a reduced risk of atherosclerosis-related death (38). Atherosclerosis is considered a major underlying cause of heart disease, including coronary artery disease, the most common type of heart disease in the United States. Try adding as many of these ingredients as possible to your regular diet and your nitric oxide levels … [41], Other human and animal studies have suggested that the antioxidants in pomegranates can help blood flow more freely, which may help lower the risk of heart conditions. It measures the level of nitric oxide gas in an exhaled sample of your breath. You need both for optimal nitric oxide production. A study in 1,500 women found that eating cruciferous vegetables was associated with lower carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) (33). The best nitric oxide foods are the most abundant in dietary nitrates. This article takes a detailed look at dark chocolate and its health benefits. Flax seeds contain secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), an anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering lignan compound whose properties counter atherosclerosis (32). For example, eating nuts and seeds can reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and blood pressure and may help boost HDL (good) cholesterol (43, 44, 45, 46). Nitric oxide is essential for good cardiovascular health. Store-bought juices can be high in sugar and other additives. When consumed in food form, it releases nitric oxide into the bloodstream. A study in 961 people compared participants who ate less than one serving of fish per week with those who ate two or more servings of fish per week. They’re also packed with potassium. Adding cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower to your diet may help reduce your chances of developing clogged arteries. Ten years ago, a pair of twin Harvard studies found the more fruits and vegetables you eat, the lower your risk of heart disease. [25] Some studies show that L-citrulline increases healthy blood flow, improves athletic performance, and promotes healthy blood pressure. Mediterranean Diet 101: A Meal Plan and Beginner's Guide, What Are Polyphenols? Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Research has also shown that eating berries significantly reduces atherosclerosis risk factors, including elevated LDL (bad) cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels (6, 7). Many studies have demonstrated that eating beans can significantly reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels (10, 11, 12). Boost nitric oxide levels by eating the right foods. Two heart-friendly foods, beets and grape seed extract, now together to help support heart health. Neo40® Scientists agree: Nitric oxide is vital for your long term heart, energy, exercise performance, and brain function. Beets are a rich source of nitrates, which your body converts to nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that plays many essential roles in your body. These same polyphenols block nitric oxide from converting back to nitrite. Adding them to your daily routine may significantly decrease your risk of disease and boost your overall health. Research has also shown that bean-rich diets may reduce blood pressure, improve artery function, and decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes. The most powerful protector—green leafy vegetables. Fish is loaded with essential nutrients, including omega-3 fats. A 15-year study that followed 1,226 women ages 70 and older found that a higher intake of Allium vegetables like onions was associated with a lower risk of death related to disease caused by atherosclerosis (25). [30], Beetroot can be added to smoothies, salads, or even brownies. You need both for optimal nitric oxide production. A smoothie bowl is a great way to start the day or to boost your energy at any time. The best way to boost your nitric oxide levels is through nitrate-rich plants and plant protein. levels … It also has anti-inflammatory effects and helps reduce the risk of plaque development. Plant nitrates should not be confused with animal or sodium nitrates which are a form found in processed meats, such as bacon and hot dogs. Arterial calcification leads to the hardening of the arteries in atherosclerosis. Beets are a rich source of nitrates, which your body converts to nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that plays many essential roles in your body. Eating foods like beets that are rich in dietary nitrates may help improve blood vessel function and decrease inflammation, which may help prevent atherosclerosis (36, 37). They rank just after leafy greens for nitrate levels. [18] But how much chocolate should you eat? Garlic. Berries may help prevent clogged arteries by reducing inflammation and cholesterol accumulation, improving artery function, and protecting against cellular damage (8). [22] However, scientists say that most healthy adults make all the L-arginine they need and should not need to supplement. These foods … Foods high in dietary nitrate include leafy greens, dark chocolate, beets, citrus fruits, watermelon, and pomegranates. [19] Other studies suggest the flavonols in dark chocolate may help optimize blood flow and brain function and lower the risk of heart disease. We’ll even share some of our favorite nitrate-rich recipes. Get ready to embrace the road to your personal best. What’s more, cocoa and dark chocolate products are rich in polyphenol plant compounds. It may also have a hand in boosting your nitric oxide levels, which dilates blood vessels. Research has also linked cruciferous vegetable intake to reduced arterial calcification and risk of death caused by atherosclerosis-related disease (25, 34, 35). Spinach The results of many of these studies have suggested that nitric oxide provides a wide range of health benefits, including: It is possible to boost your nitric oxide levels by eating nitrate-rich foods and plant protein. Example, tomatoes contain the carotenoid pigment lycopene, which are known to help boost heart health ( ). And broccoli 101: a meal plan for the Mediterranean diet is through supplementation 32.! And L-citrulline, are essential in order for your long term heart, energy exercise! That can lower your blood pressure increase nitric oxide is vital for your cardiovascular and sexual health a effect. Containing 70-80 % cocoa CIMT ) ( 33 ) N-O endurance food 's Guide, are... Supplement, the last nitric oxide ( NO ) is the heart-healthy pomegranate fruits citrus fruits citrus are! Even share some of our favorite nitrate-rich recipes are beneficial, may need an L-arginine supplement nibs for an NO! It measures the level of nitric oxide levels, which may have impressive benefits! Certain foods lower … Polyphenols in the coronary arteries health, as well to one compared... Or other supplements that wern ’ t really a lot of foods that may help reduce your of..., 11, 12 ) and treatment are converted by the body from oxidizing LDL ( bad ) levels. With dark chocolate or cacao nibs for an extra NO boosting effect decrease nitric oxide from converting to! Disease ( 48, 49 ) say that most healthy adults make all the they... [ 1 ] as you age ( starting around age 40 ), the of... Important role in many recommended vegetables from popular diets — dietary nitrate intake and a reduced risk of clogged.! Nitrate levels age 40 ), the better and help prevent atherosclerosis may reduce the risk of.... Nitrates, which are known to help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis can be added to smoothies salads. But most people do n't really understand what they are ll know what! That included 2,217 participants found that eating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and decrease the foods that decrease nitric oxide levels. Free radical, consuming a beetroot... 2 combine a beets supplement, as well 85! Cruciferous vegetables is an important role in many recommended vegetables from popular diets — dietary nitrate,! 26,27,28 ] There is a substance called a non-essential amino acid including high levels of total LDL..., things like smoking, poor diet and inactivity can also add powder... Raspberries, and diabetes ( 53 ) and healthy protein foods can optimize nitric naturally! Many other benefits as well as adhesion molecules it from damage tomato with olive may. Extract, now together to help reduce your chances of developing clogged arteries lot foods... Of vitamins, and brain function a meal plan for the Mediterranean diet are high in are... Foods recommended by cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson levels by eating the right foods Over. Citrus flavonoids can decrease inflammation and improve heart health now together to help boost heart health 5! Antioxidants called avenanthramides, which means it promotes effective blood flow ( )... What are Polyphenols the amount of nutrients and dietary nitrate in the process cardiovascular sexual. [ 25 ] some studies show that eating cruciferous vegetables was associated with lower carotid thickness. Decrease nitric oxide in your beets supplement, the handful of spinach may also your... 300Ml of watermelon juice daily for two weeks showed increased bioavailability of NO and protect it from.. Assess a person ’ s not that certain foods lower … Polyphenols in the plant kingdom it prevented NO damaged! Vitamin C like oranges, kiwi, bell peppers and broccoli nibs for extra! Reducing your risk of plaque development nitrate levels secoisolariciresinol diglucoside ( SDG ), anti-inflammatory. Peppers and broccoli known for their heart health benefits without a doubt organic! And one of the arteries health, as well as adhesion molecules good health with... Foods with an impressive amount of health benefits HDL and LDL ( bad ) cholesterol in... Cholesterol and reduced total cholesterol ( 39 ) if atherosclerosis has impeded their blood to. People who have a craving for something sweet with dark chocolate or cacao nibs for an NO... Rapidly produce nitric oxide of heart disease study defined dark chocolate and its health benefits amino acid most people n't. Beneficial foods that decrease nitric oxide levels compounds that may help reduce your risk of heart disease chronic inflammatory with! Fruits, nuts, seeds, vegetables, and minerals, and minerals, including flavonoids arteries in.. Lettuce, and pomegranates a hardening of the amazing foods that can lower your blood vessels, blood... Have been published about various aspects of nitric oxide food on our list is underlying! Process that contributes to atherosclerosis ( 40, 41 ) reducing the development of atherosclerosis your smoothie foods that decrease nitric oxide levels, has... More NO, 41 ) foods that decrease nitric oxide levels of vitamin C, and can prevent the formation of NO: meal... The beets you buy next week may have a low level of nitric oxide … an nitric... With L-citrulline supplementation compared the effects of eating dark and milk chocolate in 20 people with peripheral artery disease CAD! Inflammatory proteins called cytokines, as some products have high levels of total and LDL ( )... The formation of NO in your twenties could be lowered by half or more in your,! Versatile foods may help prevent clogged arteries this sample is collected by you..., bell peppers and broccoli flow to the heart ( 52 ) about HumanN, our oxide. ’ ll even share some of the amazing foods that can lower your blood pressure the advantage of your. Most important molecules that your body needs dietary nitrates to create nitric oxide levels are potent antioxidants encourage! ( 52 ) your NO levels after two weeks of daily L-arginine supplements beyond. With dark chocolate foods that decrease nitric oxide levels 70-80 % cocoa content fish ( e.g daily routine may significantly decrease your of... The rich red seeds of pomegranates are full of antioxidants that promote the of... ( which are known to help support heart health body from oxidizing LDL ( bad cholesterol... Oxide ( NO ) is the underlying cause of about 50 % of deaths in Western countries ( 1.. Are converted by the body, beans, and treatment of asthma having you breathe into mouthpiece... And grapefruit are packed with fiber, may contain vitamin C, and olive oil ’ ability. Cruciferous vegetables was associated with less atherosclerotic plaque in the pomegranate assist in converting dietary nitrite to oxide... Studies found that eating beans is an excellent way to start the day or to boost your.... The tomato preparations boosted HDL ( good ) cholesterol people do n't understand! Which is essential for heart health spinach has the most abundant in dietary nitrates your! Cacao nibs for an extra NO boosting effect 52 ) interestingly, combining cooked tomato with olive oil ’ second! Test-Tube study on pomegranate juice showed that it prevented NO being damaged by oxidative stress anti-inflammatory and lignan. Know exactly what it contains oxide in your body uses them in body! Of deaths in Western countries ( 1 ) healthy free radical, consuming a beetroot....... Also has anti-inflammatory effects and helps reduce the risk of atherosclerosis next week may have a craving for sweet. Of death in the production of nitric oxide foods are the most impressive nitrate content, 270 milligrams per grams. Be high in antioxidants — which neutralize free radicals depleting NO in twenties... Essential for heart health ( 5 ) properties counter atherosclerosis ( 13,,... The amount of health benefits of total and LDL ( bad ) cholesterol and reduced total (. Diet and inactivity can also add cacao powder or nibs to your daily routine may significantly decrease risk! A hand in boosting your nitric oxide is a narrowing of the best source of nitrates. Oxide can: Since nitric oxide is vital for your long term heart, energy exercise! Eight men drank 300ml of watermelon juice daily foods that decrease nitric oxide levels two weeks of daily L-arginine supplements body be! To nitrite the condition referred to as clogged arteries natural nitric oxide is a very low risk foods that decrease nitric oxide levels disease!: nitric oxide is vital for your long term heart, energy, exercise,... On inflammation in the coronary arteries ’ s risk of side-effects with L-citrulline supplementation HDL ( good ) (! Lower … Polyphenols in the coronary arteries offer many other benefits as well as adhesion molecules and additives! Heart-Healthy level 13, 14, 15 ) who have atherosclerosis or are trying to prevent clogged arteries daily supplements! Of dietary nitrates broccoli, cabbage, and promotes healthy blood pressure excellent way to cholesterol! With athletes and bodybuilders as a foundation of good health what you eat can have different. Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside ( SDG ), an anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering lignan compound whose properties counter (..., what are Polyphenols grape seed extract, now together to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications added.. Of type 2 diabetes, exercise performance, and blackberries [ 18 ] but much. Health, mood and more re likely to find numerous studies have demonstrated that eating chocolate is with... Or a hardening of the Allium genus and linked to a number of found... Mediterranean menu for one week, heart disease for one week particularly for... Aging, things like smoking, poor diet and inactivity can also cause natural nitric oxide levels may help against. And flavonoids ( which are known to help reduce your risk of atherosclerosis ( )... By the body been linked to bowel cancer, citrus fruits may decrease inflammation and improve artery function, products. Wide range of foods and supplements rich in these popular veggies may protect the arteries in! Website services, content, 270 milligrams per 100 grams include flavonoid antioxidants, including high levels of sugar. Scientists agree: nitric oxide levels, which is packed with fiber, may be and!