Here are 10 foods that naturally boost Nitric Oxide. Enjoy.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common health concern that can lead to serious complications if left unmanaged.
But fear not, nature has provided us with some fantastic ingredients. Which are becoming more popular in today's world of fast, over sugary, processed foods.
In this article, we'll explore how these amazing ingredients can help lower blood pressure by helping our bodies produce more Nitric Oxide. You'll also get some practical tips on incorporating these 10 foods into your diet.
Let's start with the first food, beetroot.
(1) Organic Beetroot: (The Nitric Oxide Booster)
Beetroot whether consumed as a whole vegetable or as juice, has earned a reputation as a natural blood pressure support nutrient. The secret lies in its rich nitrate content.
This is how Beetroot Works:
Nitrate Conversion: Our bodies convert the nitrates found in beetroot into nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes and dilates blood vessels. This dilation leads to improved blood flow and promotes lower blood pressure.
Antioxidant Power: Beetroot also contains antioxidants, which help protect blood vessels from damage caused by free radicals.
Beetroot Recipes:
Fresh Beet Salad: Inside this tasty salad, you’ll find Feta cheese, lemon vinaigrette, olive oil, lemon juice and more.
Beetroot Smoothie: Blend beetroot with greek yogurt, chia seeds, almond milk, beets and more for a blood pressure-friendly drink.
(2) Pomegranate: (A Heart-Healthy Jewel)
Pomegranate with its jewel-like seeds is not just a delightful fruit; it's a powerhouse of health benefits, which include protecting our heart health.
How Pomegranate Works:
Rich in Antioxidants: Pomegranate is loaded with potent antioxidants called polyphenols, which protect the heart by improving blood vessel health.
Nitric Oxide Production: Similar to beetroot, pomegranate can stimulate the production of nitric oxide. Leading to relaxed blood vessels and improved blood flow.
Pomegranate Recipes:
Pomegranate Seeds: Enjoy pomegranate seeds as a healthy snack or sprinkle them on yogurt or salads.
Pomegranate Juice: Sip on pure pomegranate juice as a refreshing beverage or add it to smoothies.
(3) Red Spinach: (Nature's Blood Pressure Aid)
Red spinach is often overlooked compared to its green counterpart. Even though it's been said to support healthy blood pressure.
How Red Spinach Works:
No surprise. More Nitrate Content: Just like beetroot and pomegranates. Red spinach is rich in nitrates, which our bodies can convert into nitric oxide, promoting blood vessel relaxation and supporting healthy blood pressure.
Potassium: Red spinach is also a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps balance sodium levels in the body. This is important because too much sodium in the diet has been associated with high blood pressure, we need foods that naturally keep us balanced.
Red Spinach Recipes:
Red Spinach Salad: Use red spinach as a base for your salads, combining it with other colorful veggies for a nutritious meal. Pro tip: throw in some pomegranates and beets to maximize the nitric oxide effects.
Creamed spinach: Add a handful of red spinach leaves, with some garlic, onions, and milk, cook all together. And use this recipe as a side for steak dinners or a holiday.
(4) Citrus Fruits: (Oranges, Grapefruits, Lemons)
If you like the zestier, more tropical spectrum of fruits. These are awesome choices! Packed with vitamins, and more, keep reading to learn how these sour fruits can make a difference!
How Citrus Works:
Vitamin C: Citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, which helps protect and preserve nitric oxide. This ensures its effectiveness in improving blood vessel function.
Collagen: They also aid in collagen production for healthy skin and connective tissues.
Citrus Recipes:
Citrus Salad: Combine orange and grapefruit segments with diced red onion, fresh mint, and a drizzle of olive oil for a refreshing citrus salad.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Sauté shrimp with lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a zesty and nitric oxide-boosting seafood dish.
(5) Watermelon: (The jungle plum)
One of the most refreshing bites you can have on a hot summer day. On top of that, watermelon is also packed with amino acids!
How Watermelon Works:
Citrulline: Watermelon is a natural source of citrulline, an amino acid that aids in nitric oxide production. It helps support better circulation and reduces muscle soreness. Additionally, it is also hydrating and beneficial for skin health.
Watermelon Recipes:
Watermelon Gazpacho: Blend watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and mint for a chilled and hydrating summer gazpacho.
Watermelon Salad: Mix watermelon cubes with feta cheese, mint & basil, and a drizzle of bright lime dressing for a sweet and savory salad.
(6) Garlic: (One of the oldest cultivated plants in the world)
You might need to brush your teeth after eating this one. But all jokes aside, garlic tastes amazing. And does amazing things for the body! Read on..
Allicin: Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its nitric oxide-boosting properties. It's also one of those foods that really helps with blood vessel health. And lastly, It also has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Garlic Recipes:
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Toss a variety of vegetables with olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs, then roast for a flavorful and heart-healthy side dish.
Garlic Shrimp Linguine: Sauté shrimp and garlic in olive oil, then toss with linguine, lemon juice, and fresh parsley for a delectable pasta dish.
(7) Nuts: (Almonds, Walnuts)
Nuts are more than just a hiking snack. They’re also more than just something squirrels love. They’re packed with amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein.
Learn more:
L-arginine: These nuts provide L-arginine, an amino acid that supports nitric oxide production. This strengthens heart health and vascular function. They're also packed with healthy fats for brain and joint health.
Recipes with nuts:
Almond Butter Banana Toast: Spread almond butter on whole-grain toast and top with sliced banana and a drizzle of honey for a nutritious and nitric oxide-boosting snack or breakfast.
Walnut-Crusted Salmon: Coat salmon filets with crushed walnuts and bake for a delicious, heart-healthy main course.
(8) Dark Chocolate (Cocoa Bliss)
Kids love it, adults love it, and it doesn’t get better than this. Now, we would never suggest eating a ton of over-sweetened chocolate. The only kind that's truly beneficial is low-sugar dark chocolate.
Here's how:
Flavonoids: Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that can stimulate nitric oxide production, leading to improved blood vessel function and reduced blood pressure. It is also known for its mood-enhancing and stress-reducing properties.
Dark Chocolate Recipes:
Dark Chocolate-Covered Berries: Dip fresh strawberries or blueberries in melted dark chocolate for a delectable and nitric oxide-boosting dessert.
Dark Chocolate and Nut Clusters: Create clusters by mixing melted dark chocolate with chopped nuts and dried fruit, then let them cool for a tasty snack.
(9) Salmon (Steak Of The Sea)
It’s good for sushi. It’s good on bagels. It’s good smoked, or baked. And it's arguably one of the tastiest fish you can get, but also one of the healthiest!
Omega-3 fatty acids: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can support nitric oxide production, enhance vascular function, and reduce inflammation. It is also an excellent source of high-quality protein for muscle repair and growth.
Salmon Recipes:
Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce: Grill salmon filets and serve with a homemade dill sauce made from mayonnaise, lemon juice, and fresh dill.
Baked Teriyaki Salmon: Marinate salmon in a homemade teriyaki sauce, then bake for a flavorful and heart-healthy meal.
(10) Quinoa: (Leaner Rice)
Though similar to rice, the taste and health benefits are very different. Quinoa is known for having fewer calories, and carbohydrates than the more popular rice we know and love.
L-arginine: Quinoa is a grain rich in L-arginine, an amino acid that supports nitric oxide production. It aids in improving vascular health, promoting better blood flow, and offering a complete source of plant-based protein.
Quinoa Recipes:
Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Black Beans: Make a satisfying and nitric oxide-boosting salad by combining cooked quinoa with cucumber, red bell peppers, red onion and more.
Quinoa-Stuffed Peppers: Prepare a wholesome meal by filling bell peppers with a mixture of quinoa, ground turkey, vegetables, and spices, then baking until tender.
An important Note on Organics:
As the saying goes. “Pay the farmer now, or the doctor later.”
When it comes to these superfoods, going for high-quality organic options is key.
Organic farming practices often reduce the presence of harmful pesticides and chemicals, ensuring a purer, healthier product. While organic options may be slightly pricier, they are worth the investment in your long term health.
Practical Tips for a Blood Pressure-Friendly Diet:
Besides incorporating these superfoods, here are some simple guidelines to help you maintain healthy blood pressure:
Reduce Sodium Intake: Excess salt can raise blood pressure. Minimize processed and salty foods, and season your meals with herbs and spices instead.
Embrace a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Stay Active: Regular physical activity can help control blood pressure. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. (The more the better!)
Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to high blood pressure. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation. Better yet, don't drink at all.
Let’s wrap this up.
When managing blood pressure, nature has