When derived from vegetables, they increase oxygen delivery to muscles by improving blood flow. High nitrate content is found in the Mediterranean diet, vegeterian diets, Japanese diets and the DASH diet (dietary approaches to stop hypertension)
Leafy green veggies have a high nitrate content which converts to Nitrite (NO2) by bacterial enzymes in the mouth, then is reduced to Nitric Oxide (NO) in the stomach or blood.
- Nitric Oxide increases circulation, lowers blood pressure, enhances digestion, enhances libido, improves immune system and builds stronger bones
- consume beets 75 min. prior to exercise