Know your bodybuilding supplement - nitric
oxide
by Richard Mitchell
Nitric oxide is a free form
gas produced by the body in order to communicate with other
cells. It is created when enzymes break down the amino acid
arginine. The main benefit of nitric oxide is its
role in controlling the circulation of blood and regulating
activities of the brain, lungs, liver, stomach and other
organs. It also helps in the control of blood pressure, dilates
blood vessels to cause penile erection and is used by the
immune system to fight viral, bacterial and parasitic
infections.
It is the ability of nitric oxide to increase blood flow that
is of most interest to bodybuilders who can benefit as
follows:
1. The increased blood flow delivers more nutrients to the
muscle cells thus helping them to grow during the adaptation
and recovery phase.
2. Its ability to reduce inflammation helps muscles that have
been subjected to extreme stresses.
Given its close relationship with arginine care should be taken
in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an
optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein
powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so
check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions
should be followed in all instances.
About the author:
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com
website that provides guidance and information to athletes at
all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding
Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this
article.
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