Nitric oxide

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Nitric oxide

is a signaling molecule produced by the body that helps the body cells to communicate. It signals the body to release more blood to the organs when needed. One of the common ways to increase the concentration of NO in the body is through exercise. While working out, body muscles need more oxygen, which is supplied with blood. The heart pumps with high pressure to supply sufficient blood to the muscles; the lining of the arteries releases NO into the blood in order to relax and widen the vessel wall and thus, more blood can pass through. However, with age, blood vessels and NO-systems become inefficient due to free radicals, poor diet, etc., causing veins and arteries to deteriorate. It helps in supplying the sufficient amount of blood flow to the tissues and therefore, allows smooth muscles to relax.

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