How Does Nitric Oxide Help Build Bigger and More Muscles?

Online, March 16, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Nitrogen monoxide or nitric oxide (NO) used to be thought of only as a harmful substance found in noxious car fumes. Now, it is the main ingredient in supplements used in body building, fitness and sports activities.

The discovery of the benefits of NO began with the pioneering work of three scientists: Robert Furchgott, Louis Ignarro, and Ferid Murad. Their discovery won them a Nobel Prize, and encouraged many more studies that confirmed and expanded on their initial findings. As a result, the use of nitrogen monoxide in certain medical procedures is now FDA-approved. In the health and fitness industry, N.O. (Nitric Oxide) Supplements are also now widely recognized as very effective in boosting stamina and energy, especially in muscle building workouts.

How does nitric oxide work? As scientifically proven, this substance-which is made up of one oxygen and one nitrogen molecule-is actually a vasodilator. This means that it dilates or expands blood vessels in order to let more blood and oxygen pass through. This translates to greater blood supply to every cell in the body, including to muscles that direly need oxygen and nutrients as fuel during workouts. As a result, muscles can work longer without tiring. The person also feels less soreness or even no pain at all after a long workout session.

Interestingly, not only can people exercise longer with the NO supplements, but they also feel restless if they don't work out. Taking the supplements can therefore be a good motivator not to skip workouts. This may have to do with the fact that nitrogen monoxide is also a neurotransmitter, and it may have a subtle effect on mood. Or it may be explained by the fact that since there is now greater blood supply (and therefore more oxygen and nutrients) to the muscles, they feel "ready" and "eager" to expend that energy by working out. Whatever the reason, many people report that they are more enthusiastic for exercise when taking the supplements. Considering this, it is recommended that the supplements be taken early in the day, and never close to one's bedtime, otherwise sleeping at night may be difficult.

Medically, low doses of NO are administered to improve weak cardiovascular and pulmonary functioning. NO therapy is especially helpful in premature babies with underdeveloped lungs. It is also is helpful for people who have persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN). The substance helps them breathe more easily and improves blood circulation throughout the body.

Bodybuilders and fitness buffs who take NO supplements must never go beyond the safe dosing amounts. Even in medical procedures, NO doses are carefully controlled so that they don't exceed the safe limits. In non-medical settings, the responsibility lies in the hands of the person who takes the supplements. He must take care not to overdose on them, or else he will experience some undesirable side effects.

Aside from that cautionary measure, intake of N.O. (Nitric Oxide) Supplements is generally safe for everyone. When using the supplements, fitness enthusiasts can look forward to faster muscle development, longer workout times, less fatigue and pain, and greater energy during exercise as well as throughout the day.