More on Nitric Oxide

Developed muscles are not only aesthetically appealing, but strong muscles may help improve athletic performance and protect the body from injury as well as reduce body-fat accumulation. While muscle-building is directly related to the diet and exercises performed, supplements are commonplace among weightlifters. One of the most widely used muscle-building supplements is nitric oxide. Manufacturers claim this supplement creates significant muscle fiber development and an increase in strength; however, this supplement is not ideal for all weightlifters and the side effects may outweigh its benefits.

Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide is among the most popular bodybuilding supplements on the market, and while manufacturer claims may seem outlandish, how this chemical reacts in the body may actually have positive effects on muscle development. Nitric oxide is a naturally occurring gas within the body, and its primary function is to assist in information transmission between cells. This gas also enhances blood flow throughout the body through blood vessel dilation, and according to the "Los Angeles Times," nitric oxide may also decrease blood pressure. While nitric oxide manufacturers claim you're consuming the pure version of this gas, these products are actually L-arginine, which is an amino acid that transforms into nitric oxide within the body.

Nitric Oxide and Muscle Growth
The actual effects of nitric oxide for muscle growth and development are currently under investigation within the scientific community; however, in a study outlined in the "Los Angeles Times" report "What Can Nitric Oxide Do For Me?," author Jeanine Stein discusses a study performed by the International Journal of Sports Medicine. Within this study 30 endurance athletes were given L-arginine, aspartate or a placebo. At the conclusion of this study, evidence showed zero increase in endurance and blood vessel dilation to the muscles. While this study may lead to the fact that nitric oxide does not promote muscle growth or development, Exercise Biology reports nitric oxide increases protein synthesis within the muscles through increasing blood flow.

How Muscles Grow

As muscles undergo bouts of intense resistance, such as weightlifting, the actual muscle fibers are damaged. This damage activates satellite cells surrounding the muscle tissue, and to repair the damage caused to muscle fibers, these satellite cells begin fusing together. This fusing action results in increased muscle fiber numbers and thickness, thus enlarging the muscles. The University of New Mexico states muscle growth also occurs when protein synthesis outnumbers protein breakdown within the muscle fibers, and as the muscles are damaged through safe exercise the body begins the protein synthesis process.

Warnings

As with any supplement, discuss its use with your doctor prior to beginning a supplementation routine. While nitric oxide is generally considered safe, those with high blood pressure and other cardiovascular ailments should take extreme caution.