611: Nitric Oxide: The Holy Grail of Longevity - How to Improve Blood Flow & Prevent Disease | Dr. Nathan Bryan
Jul 30, 2024
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Dr. Nathan Bryan, a renowned nitric oxide scientist and author, dives into the incredible health benefits of nitric oxide and its crucial role in blood flow and disease prevention. He discusses the negative impact of everyday products on nitric oxide production and how oral health is tied to systemic diseases. Bryan highlights dietary sources of nitrates, the importance of gut health, and how lifestyle choices can optimize nitric oxide levels. He also touches on innovative oral care strategies and the potential for health improvements at any age.
Nitric oxide is essential for various physiological functions, impacting metabolism, blood pressure, sexual function, and cognitive performance.
Chronic diseases are often linked to oral microbiome imbalance, emphasizing the need for maintaining beneficial bacteria for nitric oxide production.
Eliminating harmful products like antiseptic mouthwash and proton pump inhibitors can restore healthy nitric oxide levels and reduce disease risk.
Dietary nitrates from green leafy vegetables are crucial for nitric oxide synthesis, highlighting the importance of a nitrate-rich diet for health.
Deep dives
Importance of Nitric Oxide for Overall Health
Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological functions such as metabolism, blood pressure regulation, sexual function, and cognitive performance. It enhances blood flow to various organs, thereby supporting overall health. Adequate levels of nitric oxide are linked to improved biomarkers of longevity, including telomere length and stem cell mobilization. Thus, ensuring optimal nitric oxide production is foundational for promoting long-term health and vitality.
Chronic Disease and Oral Health Connection
Research indicates that chronic diseases often originate in the mouth due to dysbiosis, an imbalance of oral bacteria. While many attribute this to harmful bacteria causing inflammation, the removal of beneficial bacteria during pathogen elimination can lead to decreased nitric oxide production, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, preserving a healthy oral microbiome is essential for preventing chronic health issues. Strategies to avoid antiseptics and fluoride can help maintain beneficial bacteria that contribute to nitric oxide synthesis.
Common Disruptors of Nitric Oxide Production
Several common products and practices have been identified as harmful to nitric oxide production. Antiseptic mouthwash and fluoride in toothpaste and water are known to destroy the oral microbiome, directly leading to decreased nitric oxide levels and elevated blood pressure. Proton pump inhibitors, frequently used for acid reflux, have also been correlated with increased risk of heart disease and cognitive decline due to their detrimental impact on nitric oxide production. Eliminating these products can help restore healthy nitric oxide levels.
Dietary Sources and the Role of Nitrates
Dietary nitrates, predominantly found in green leafy vegetables, are crucial for the production of nitric oxide. Upon consumption, nitrates are converted into nitrites by oral bacteria before entering the bloodstream, where they are further transformed into nitric oxide, especially in the stomach's acidic environment. Despite their importance, many people fail to consume sufficient nitrates due to dietary habits or ineffective farming practices that reduce nitrate content in vegetables. Therefore, integrating a variety of nitrate-rich foods into daily diets is vital.
Restoration of the Oral Microbiome
The oral microbiome can regain its health and functionality if harmful products affecting it are discontinued. Evidence shows that stopping the use of antiseptic mouthwash can lead to a repopulation of beneficial bacteria within just a few days. This restoration enhances the body's ability to produce nitric oxide again, contributing to overall health improvements. Additionally, introducing foods that contain nitrates can further support the microbiome, helping to maintain its balance and bacteria diversity.
Link between Nitric Oxide and Immune Function
Nitric oxide plays a vital role in the immune system by supporting the function of immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils. When effectively produced, nitric oxide aids in combating bacterial infections and preventing viral replication. During health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals with compromised nitric oxide production exhibited increased vulnerability to severe outcomes. Enhancing nitric oxide levels can significantly boost an individual's defense against infections and support overall immune health.
Nasal Breathing and Nitric Oxide Production
Nasal breathing is essential for maximizing nitric oxide production, which occurs in the nasal epithelium. This pathway is directly linked to improved oxygen delivery to tissues and overall cardiovascular health. Individuals who consistently breathe through their mouths may experience reduced nitric oxide synthesis, compromising their blood flow and oxygenation capabilities. Emphasizing nasal breathing not only aids nitric oxide production but also enhances physical performance and overall health.
