Steps to Improve Nitric Oxide Production
Nitric oxide levels are key for improved general health—including circulation, oxygen delivery, blood pressure, and overall cardiovascular health.
Diet of Nitrate-Rich Foods
When we eat nitrate-rich foods from fruits and vegetables, the nitrates are absorbed into our bloodstream, circulate throughout the body, and are absorbed into our saliva, promoting denitrifying bacteria.
Recommended Foods:
- leafy greens, such as spinach
- lettuce
- celery
- beets
- strawberries
Having Xylitol
A healthy mouth can have approximately 800 kinds of good bacteria, which is critical for a balanced microbiome. Supporting and nurturing these good bacteria is the best way to improve oral health by having xylitol throughout the day. Studies recommend 6.5-10 grams daily to achieve maximum oral health benefits.
Avoid Certain Oral Care Products
Denitrifying bacteria are harmed by oral care products like bleaching agents or strong antiseptic rinses—particularly chlorhexidine, which dentists unfortunately recommend for gum disease.
A Swedish study by Joel Petersson et al. examined rats that had been fed a super nitrate-rich diet. Some of these rats had their mouths sprayed with an antibacterial spray, which damaged their oral bacteria, including the denitrifying bacteria.
Continue learning about healthy foods here: Foods That Improve Oral Health