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The Effects of Nitric Oxide on Endurance

Athletes are constantly searching for supplements that improve performance. Nitric oxide (NO) was developed by Ed Byrd, co-founder of EAS, as a supplement to build muscle. NO can have positive and negative effects for an endurance athlete.

  1. Function

    • NO acts as a hemodilator causing increased blood flow to muscles and causing a "pump" - or the feeling of blood-filled muscles.

    Considerations

    • Originally, NO was designed for body builders as a supplement to gain muscle size. Endurance athletes are not typically looking to gain muscle size.

    Benefits

    • Nitric Oxide can increase the ability to transport glucose to working muscles. This can result in increased energy available during runs.

    Bloodflow

    • Being a vasodilator, NO improves blood flow that can have a positive effect on endurance by providing oxygen and nutrients to the working muscles.

    Warning

    • Side effects of NO can be diarrhea and nausea which are two symptoms that can negatively effect performance of endurance athletes.

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