Nitric Oxide Side Effects

Not many people know that nitric oxide is an essential form of gas produced by the human body, which helps in regulating its various functions. Though nitric oxide plays such an important role for humans, it was not before 1980 that scientists discovered this very fact. Moreover, after this discovery, several studies were conducted to find the uses and benefits of nitric oxide, making it the one of the most researched molecule among several others. Many drug producing companies have also manufactured nitric oxide supplements which are recommended to people who suffer from nitric oxide deficiency. As there are several benefits attached to nitric oxide, it has become a favorable nutritional supplement among people. However, just like all good things, even nitric oxide has certain side effects that can harm the body. Nevertheless, before we move into the nitric oxide side effects, let us take a look at the function of nitric oxide in the body. Read more on L-arginine: side effects and benefits.

Functions of Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide is a molecule that contains a single nitrogen and an oxygen atom. This gas is produced when an enzyme group known as Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) breaks down L-arginine, an amino acid into L-citruline. Although the functions of nitric oxide were very limited in the beginning, with research many of them began to be listed in the profile of nitric oxide. Here are some of them:

One of the most important functions of nitric oxide is regulating the flow or circulation of blood to different parts of the body. It is also a crucial factor in proper functioning of the activities related to different organs of the body, including stomach, lungs, kidneys, brain, etc. Nitric oxide even supports the immune system by helping it fight infectious diseases caused by bacteria, virus, tumors and parasites. It also helps in preventing erectile dysfunction in men because nitric oxide dilates the blood vessels causing penile erection.

Nitric oxide aids the body in the healing process after suffering from abrasions, cuts, wounds, muscle and ligament injury, etc. Proper supply of nitric oxide also protects people from atherosclerosis where the arteries or the blood vessels become hardened. Another important part played by the nitric oxide is to carry messages to nerve cells from one part of the body to other. Hence, it is said to be very essential for processes like thinking, memory, feeling pain, learning, etc.

The reason that nitric oxide supplements have become a craze among bodybuilders is because it is said to help in building muscles. When a person takes nitric oxide supplements or boosters, the channels of the arteries are broadened due to which blood flow increases, subsequently sending more oxygen as well as nutrients to the muscles. Due to this, they gain more muscle mass which are stronger as well as firmer. Moreover, as nitric oxide aids in relieving inflammation, bodybuilders are more interested in it, as it is a great way of reducing pain caused by extreme stress caused to muscles while working out.

Nitric Oxide Side Effects

Though nitric oxide has several positive benefits, before taking nitric oxide boosters or supplements, people should know about the side effects that it can cause. Usually, it is not very severe and disappears as the body gets adjusted to it. However, carelessness while taking it can cause serious damage to the body, sometimes even leading to the death of a person.

• The common nitric oxide bodybuilding side effects that you may experience during the initial days after consuming it, include headache and nausea. Along with it, you may also feel fatigue or extreme weakness. Diarrhea is also one of the nitric oxide boosters side effects.
• Some people have reported to have fainted after taking these supplements. Other than this, it is also common to experience certain discomfort due to rapid heart rate and palpitations, dry mouth, skin irritation, and water retention in the body.
• Dangerous side effects of nitric oxide supplements taken in large doses include wheezing, breathing problems, itching, vomiting, tremors, hives, asthma, etc. One can also experience severe sweating, and tremors after taking nitric oxide supplements.
• Other than these, overdose of nitric oxide supplements, even the body's over production of nitric oxide can lead to severe health problems. Extremely high amount of nitric oxide is produced in the body when a person is suffering from blood poisoning. Due to this, the blood pressure of the person goes down below normal level, leading to his/her death.
• In the same way, when a person suffers from a stroke, the nerve cells stop receiving oxygen, due to which the body produces large amount of nitric oxide which attacks the neurons in the brain, causing death of the person.

Experts are of the opinion that there are very less chances of nitric oxide side effects, if one takes the correct dosage. You have to read the instructions given on the label very carefully before taking these supplements. Initially, start with a very less dose, gradually increasing your intake as you see less side effects and more benefits. If you experience any of the severe side effects, do not waste time to consult your physician. Even before taking these nitric oxide boosters or supplements, discuss with your health practitioner. Women who are pregnant or nursing their babies, and those who have heart and liver problems, should refrain from taking nitric oxide supplements, as it is toxic for their body.