Nitric Oxide Side Effects

Def: Nitric oxide is a molecule that has a single nitrogen and 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-citrulline.

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 fact. Moreover, after this discovery, several studies were conducted to find the uses and benefits of nitric oxide, making it one of the most researched molecules. Many drug-producing companies have manufactured nitric oxide supplements which are recommended to people suffering 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. In this article we will discuss three important aspects of nitric oxide; the function of nitric oxide in the human body, what are the benefits of nitric oxide, and side effects of nitric oxide supplements.

Index

• Function of Nitric Oxide in the Human Body
• What are the Benefits of Nitric Oxide?
• Nitric Oxide Side Effects On The Body
• FAQs

A] Function of Nitric Oxide in the Human Body

One of the most important functions of nitric oxide is regulating the flow, or circulation of blood to different parts of the body. It also plays a crucial factor in the proper execution of activities related to different organs of the body; including the 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.

B] What are the Benefits of Nitric Oxide?

Nitric oxide (NO) aids the human body's healing process after suffering from abrasions, cuts, wounds, muscle and ligament injury, etc. Proper supply of NO also protects people from atherosclerosis; a condition where our arteries or blood vessels harden. NO also carries messages to nerve cells from one part of the body, to another. Hence, it is said to be very essential for processes like thinking, memory construction, feeling pain, learning, etc.

→ Nitric Oxide and BodyBuilding
The reason 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 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. Moreover, as NO aids in relieving inflammation, bodybuilders are more interested in it. It is a great way of reducing pain caused due to extreme stress caused to muscles, while working out.

C] Nitric Oxide Side Effects On The Body

Though NO has several benefits, before taking nitric oxide boosters or supplements, people should know about the side effects it can cause. Most of the time, these aren't very severe, and disappear 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. Let us go through the most dangerous side effects of nitric oxide supplements before we proceed to the commonly observed NO side effects.

• Wheezing
• Breathing problems
• Itching
• Vomiting
• Tremors
• Hives
• Asthma
• Severe sweating
• Tremors

√ The common nitric oxide side effects you may experience during initial days, include headache and nausea. Along with it, you may also experience fatigue and/or extreme weakness. Diarrhea is also one of the nitric oxide side effects.

√ Some people 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.

√ Other than these, overdose of nitric oxide supplements and/or 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 below normal level, leading to 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 amounts of nitric oxide, which attacks the neurons in the brain, causing death of the person.

D] FAQs

→ Question: Do pre-workout supplements give rise to kidney stones?

Answer: There is substantial evidence that creatine does lead to kidney stone in certain circumstances. However, there is no substantial proof that pre-workout nitric oxide supplements also cause kidney stones.

→ Question: Does consuming Force Factor have harmful effects?

Answer: Force Factor nitric oxide booster side effects aren't usual. The problem arises only if you don't comply with the required dosage.

→ Question: Can you overdose on NOS blast?

Answer: NOS blast is a product by Body Fortress. It should be taken after consulting your physician. Not pertaining to the prescribed dosage, might lead to overdose. Contact your nearest hospital immediately.

→ Question: How does nitrix effect your liver?

Answer: Nitrix is another supplement that contains NO. Just like other supplements, you need to obligatorily stick to the prescribed dosage. It increases the enzymes your liver produces, thus over tasking it. Ask your physician to give you a diet that complements this supplement.

Caution: Pregnant women and nursing mothers, and those who have heart and liver problems, should refrain from taking nitric oxide supplements, as it is toxic for their body.

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 to avoid side effects of nitric oxide. Initially, start with a very low dose. You can gradually increase your intake as you see less side effects and more benefits. If you experience any of the above-mentioned side effects, do not waste time in consulting your physician. Even before taking these nitric oxide boosters or supplements, discuss with your health practitioner.