TheFugitive

TheFugitive

Friday, July 20, 2012

Arginine, Nitric Oxide & Muscle Growth


Arginine is an amino acid produced in the body, whereas nitric oxide is a signaling molecule that has various functions in humans. These work to improve blood flow which can, as a result, increase muscle growth and strength. Arginine and nitric oxide supplements are therefore common in the bodybuilding world.

Arginine

Arginine, also known as L-Arginine, is a biochemical compound found in protein known as an amino acid. Arginine is a non-essential amino acid, meaning the human body creates it and it does not need to be consumed through diet. However, there are benefits to increasing arginine intake. These include fighting coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, improved sexual performance and unblocking arteries. Arginine is found in red meat, poultry, seafood and dairy products.


Nitric Oxide
Nitric oxide is a signaling molecule found in the body that is involved in a range of cellular processes. This molecule was discovered by groups trying to identify the agent responsible for blood vessel relaxation. Nitric oxide plays a role in blood vessel relaxation as well as neurotransmission, immune defence and the regulation of cell death. Nitric oxide can also play a role in muscle growth.

Applications to Muscle Growth

Nitric oxide and arginine can increase muscle mass, says Layne Norton, a body builder with a Ph.D. in nutritional science. Nitric oxide acts to improve blood flow, which can increase muscle mass. Arginine produces nitric oxide, which acts as a vasodilator, increasing the diameter of blood vessels and allowing more blood to flow through your body. Increased nitric oxide speeds up blood flow to skeletal muscle, which in turn can cause an increased absorption of minerals and nutrients to the muscle fiber, aiding in muscle growth.

Supplementation

Nitric oxide and arginine supplements are available on various bodybuilding websites. You may take arginine to increase natural nitric oxide production or take nitric oxide directly. Nitric oxide supplementation may aid muscle gain, according to fitness and bodybuilding expert Clayton South. Some indicators of nitric oxide deficiency are erectile dysfunction, fatigue or weakness. Overdosing on nitric oxide carries such symptoms as diarrhea, weakness and nausea.




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