While traditional exercise is known to help you lose weight and stay fit, new research shows that it can also increase the production of nitric oxide, a chemical that has many important functions in the body, including the prevention of heart disease. Nitric oxide is antiatherogenic, meaning that it stops arteries and blood vessels from clogging. Researchers have been investigating the creation of nitric oxide synthase, the enzyme that causes the production of nitric oxide. From their research, they have discovered that exercise elevates production of the enzyme and increases the possibly that nitric oxide levels in the body will rise and protect the arteries.
There is also evidence that those individuals who are more prone to heart disease will actually receive an extra benefit from nitric oxide. For example, working out will increase nitric oxide levels in the arteries. One of the effects of arteriosclerosis is damage to the artery lining, which exposes them to bad cells. Nitric oxide will stop blood cells from attaching together and sticking to the wall of the arteries. It will also maintain proper vascular tone, since it permits the blood vessels to relax.
Historically, nitric oxide was not known for its health benefits. It had previously been famous for the smog that comes out of car tailpipes. Then three scientists, Louis Ignarro, Robert Furgott, and Ferid Murad, produced experiments that showed the beneficial aspect of nitric oxide, ultimately winning them a Nobel Prize.
These men observed that nitric oxide dilates the blood vessels. They identified that the inner layer of the cells released nitric oxide when the nitric oxide synthase was triggered. Nitric oxide then sends a signal to the smooth muscle cells of the artery walls telling them to relax. As they dilate, blood pressure decreases and blood flow increases. Exercising will raise the amount of nitric oxide that goes into the bloodstream. Since this discovery, scientists have taken it to different directions. The best known variant is Viagra. This drug elevates the amount of nitric oxide in your body and allows for muscle and blood vessel relaxation, leading to an erection.
Many nitric oxide products have sprung up in the market over the past few years. There nitric oxide dietary supplements, such as Niteworks, try to offer an alternative to prescription drugs. The makers of these nitric oxide products claim that natural dietary supplements, exercise, and healthy diets all lead to the increase in nitric oxide production to protect you from cardiovascular disease.
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