Health is Wealth: Health Alert

by Nobel Laureate in Medicine Dr. Louis Ignarro andNaturopathic Physician Dr. Andrew Myers

Say Yes to NO – A 3 Part Plan

While the body is constantly producing Nitric Oxide, there are three ways to boost NO levels and, when combined, create optimal conditions for improved cardiovascular health. The three keys to NO production are:

1. Nutritional Supplements
2. Functional Foods
3. Exercise

Combining an NO-friendly diet, regular exercise, and the correct supplements will cause an increase in your body’s Nitric Oxide production. This will keep endothelial cells well nourished and blood vessels relaxed, which can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, discourage the formation of plaque, ensure blood flow, and reduce the inflammation which can lead to atherosclerosis – often in as little as two weeks.

Nutritional Supplements

Nutritional supplements are a vital and necessary part of the NO program. There is a specific mix of nutrients that leads to optimal Nitric Oxide production and it is important to take all of the nutrients in the mix as they are interdependent and rely on each other.
There are three main ingredients for an effective NO supplement: l-Arginine, l-Citrulline, and Antioxidants.

Arginine is a naturally produced amino acid. Arginine enhances blood flow and improves the activity of the endothelial cells because it is converted to NO in the body. Recommended Dosage: 4-6 g/day

Citrulline is also a natural amino acid. It is converted into Arginine within the body, increasing NO production.Recommended Dosage: .5-1 g/day

Antioxidants such as Vitamins C and E, Folic Acid, and Alpha Lipoic Acid preserve the body’s supply of Nitric Oxide. These nutrients combat the disease promotiong process called “oxidation,” which inactivates NO, reduces its concentrations in the body, and damages the endothelial cells. Recommended Dosage: Vitamin C .5 g/day; Vitamin E 200 IU/day; Folic Acid 400-800 mcg/day; 10-100 mg/day

Many products available on the market claiming to boost NO levels are nothing but Arginine, in insufficient levels. These products will not deliver the cardiovascular health results that are available from other products that combine the nutrients as described here.

NO-Boosting Nutrition

The key to boosting NO through nutrition is to eat sufficient amounts of good foods and only moderately consume foods that work against cardiovascular health. Foods to eat are those high in antioxidants and amino acids. Nuts, fruit and vegetables are the best way to eat antioxidants. Foods high in Arginine and Citrulline include melons, peanuts, red meat (in moderation), salmon, and soy.
Foods to avoid are those with saturated fats, trans fats, and dietary cholesterol. Foods to eat only in moderation include fatty animal products such as beef, pork, lamb, whole milk and ice cream. It is important to avoid foods high in trans fat such as cookies, crackers, bread, butter, potato chips, popcorn, and fried potatoes.

NO-Boosting Fitness

Physical activity accelerates blood flow, elevates level s of the enzyme NO synthase that produces NO, and increases the amount of nitric oxide in the body. Regular exercise is the leading strategy for promoting consistent and continuous production of NO by the vascular endothelial cells.
It does not take an inordinate amount of time to receive the benefits of exercise. Twenty minutes per day, three times a week may be all that is necessary for your body to produce plenty of Nitric Oxide. Activities such as riding a bike, jogging, or walking can be extremely effective and easy to accomplish with regularity.