If you’ve ever seen a holistic dentist in Austin, you know their approach is helping people achieve great dental andoverall health at the same time. After all, it’s a lot easier to smile when your whole body feels good! One important aspect of your well-being that may surprise you is a molecule called nitric oxide (not to be confused with nitrousoxide, which is a type of sedation). Many people aren’t aware of what nitric oxide is or how it benefits them, but it’s actually so important that the topic was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1998! After reading this blog, you’ll have an idea of how nitric oxide affects your health and learn how to increase it to feel stronger, healthier, and more energetic.
WHAT IS NITRIC OXIDE AND HOW DOES IT BENEFIT YOU?
Nitric oxide is a simple molecule that’s naturally produced by your body. It’s crucial for vasodilation, the process in which your blood vessels relax and widen to allow blood to pass through. Essentially, nitric oxide improves your circulation so that the vital nutrients and oxygen in your blood can reach every part of your body, including your heart, brain, and all your muscles from head toe.
If your body isn’t producing enough nitric oxide, you’re at risk for all of the following:
- Heart disease, including atherosclerosis and high blood pressure
- Insulin resistance and diabetes
- A higher BMI (body mass index)
- Less blood flow to your brain
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased immunity and sleep quality
The good news is that there are several easy ways to naturally increase the nitric oxide in your body.
HOW CAN YOU INCREASE YOUR NITRIC OXIDE LEVELS?
- Certain bacteria in your mouth convert nitrate to nitric oxide. Unfortunately, the regular use of antibacterial toothpastes or alcohol-containing mouthwashes kill these good bacteria off. Talk to a holistic dentist about how to keep your teeth and gums clean without disrupting this important balance of bacteria.
- Eat a diet high in nitrate-rich vegetables such as dark leafy greens, beets, and celery.
- Increase your consumption of antioxidants by eating whole foods that contain vitamin E, vitamin C, etc. Examples include nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Talk to a dentist or doctor about whether you could benefit from supplements that boost nitric oxide such as the amino acids L-arginine and L-citrulline.
- Exercise naturally improves your circulation, gets your blood flowing, and increases nitric oxide. Find activities you enjoy and fit them into your schedule 4-5 times a week.
With these simple tips, you can lead a healthier life, have more energy, and simply feel better overall.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Candace Bruno is a holistic dentist with nearly a decade of experience and a passion for helping people achieve great health. In addition to providing outstanding dentistry, she also enjoys educating people about the many factors that affect their overall well-being. If you have any questions about nitric oxide treatment in Austin, she can be contacted via her website or at (512) 372-8484.