#279 | MM - Nitric Oxide & Healthy Vascular Function

Nitric oxide is the most powerful compound for maintaining vascular health!

Unfortunately, the endogenous production of this potent molecule naturally declines with age... BUT, there is MUCH to do to preserve optimal nitric oxide production and vascular function, and of course, it comes down to DIET.

In this episode, we get nitty-gritty and nuanced in discussing vascular performance and the importance of nitric oxide while maintaining perspective of the bigger picture when it comes to cardiovascular health.

In a nutshell, avoiding oxidative damage while  loading up on anti-oxidants is KEY... especially alongside a diet of NITRATE-RICH plants that naturally lead to the creation of our beloved nitric oxide molecule.

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Some highlights from today's MM episode...

Nitrates occur naturally in most whole plant foods and are not to be confused with added nitrates/nitrites found in processed meats known to create nitrosamines, known carcinogenic compoundsNitric oxide plays many roles in maintaining vascular health - dilation/relaxation of blood vessels, blocking platelet aggregation (clotting), inhibiting WBC adhesion and inflammatory response In the blood, the amino acid arginine is converted into nitric oxide, but this pathway declines with ageNitrates from foods are converted to nitrites by bacteria in the mouth and then into nitric oxide in the bloodstream High nitrate foods include: Arugula, spinach, beets, beet greens, kale, cabbageOther foods are known to promote nitric oxide production by enhancing nitric oxide synthase enzymes: garlic, cacao, citrus, pomegranate 

Links to some more good stuff
-  Join Alter Health on Locals: https://alterhealth.locals.com/
- Cleanse with Us during the next Alter Health Cleanse: https://www.alter.health/cleanse
- Work with us in the Thrive on Plants program: https://www.alter.health/thrive-on-plants
- ATTN Health Practitioners! Learn more and apply to the Plant Based Mind Body Practitioner Program: https://www.alter.health/pbmb-practitioner

Peace and Love.

Links to some more good stuff
- ALL NEW EAT MORE, WEIGH LESS PROGRAM - www.alter.health/eat-more-weigh-less
- 1-on-1 Nutritional Analysis Package - www.alter.health/nutritional-analysis
- Get the Alter Health weekly WFPB Meal Guides: www.alter.health/meal-guides
- Work with us in the Thrive on Plants program: www.alter.health/thrive-on-plants