Exercise Science Expert Explains Nitric Oxide

Alex Rothstein, M.S., instructor for the Exercise Science program, is quoted in a Men’s Health article about the impact of nitric oxide on fitness performance. He explains that nitric oxide, a gas naturally produced in the body, is known to increase blood flow. Given this, its building block, the essential amino acid L-arginine, is commonly found in pre-workout supplements. 

“Nitric oxide is a gas and free radical that’s recognized to play a role in several physiological systems. It’s synthesized from L-arginine, and this is why many supplements that suggest an increase in nitric oxide use L-arginine,” says Rothstein. However, among other points, he also notes that while nitric oxide is essential for vasodilation, research doesn’t necessarily support the claim that L-arginine supplements produce more nitric oxide than normal dietary intake and exercise.