Heart attacks continue to be the leading cause of death worldwide. Modern food habits and lifestyle patterns are silently increasing this risk by lowering the body’s natural ability to produce nitric oxide.
But what is it? Nitric oxide is one of the body’s most important molecules for cardiovascular health that keeps blood vessels relaxed, blood flowing and arteries clear.
This naturally produced compound plays a key role in maintaining blood vessel flexibility and circulation and preventing arterial plaque build-up. A significant drop in nitric oxide levels is associated with increased risk of high blood pressure, strokes and heart attacks.
Alarmingly, some of the biggest threats to nitric oxide production are commonly found in our daily routines.
5 Habits That Increase Heart Attack Risk
Refined sugars
Found in soft drinks, sweets, sauces and packaged snacks, refined sugar spikes blood sugar levels, triggers inflammation in the lining of blood vessels and produces oxidative stress. All of these destroy nitric oxide molecules and damage the blood vessel lining. In the long run, it causes insulin resistance, further inhibiting nitric oxide production.
Refined starch
White bread, crackers and pastries quickly break down into glucose, causing metabolic stress, inflammation and damage to the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels) that produces nitric oxide. It is to be noted that refined starch contains none of the fibre and antioxidants present in whole grains that serve to defend the vascular system.
Industrial seed oils
Commonly used oils like soybean, corn and sunflower oil are high in omega-6 fatty acids and become toxic when heated. These oils promote inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which lower nitric oxide levels, impair artery function and increase risk of cardiovascular disease.
Smoking and Secondhand Smoke
While tobacco use damages blood vessels, reduces oxygen supply and increases blood clotting, its smoke destroys the endothelial lining of blood vessels and degrades nitric oxide within the body. It also decreases the functioning of the enzyme that is responsible for producing nitric oxide, all of which significantly increase the likelihood of heart attacks.
Antibacterial mouthwash
Surprisingly, some antiseptic mouthwashes contain chemicals that kill beneficial oral bacteria responsible for converting dietary nitrates into nitric oxide. Daily use of high-strength antiseptic mouthwash can reduce nitric oxide levels and raise blood pressure.
How to Boost Nitric Oxide Naturally?
Maintaining healthy nitric oxide levels is essential for long-term heart health. You can easily encourage its production and maintain blood vessels through certain dietary and lifestyle factors. Look at some ways to boost nitric oxide naturally:
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet, including nuts and seeds rich in arginine and leafy greens like spinach, arugula, kale, beets, garlic, onions, citrus fruits, pomegranate and dark chocolate.
- Exercise regularly and include activities like brisk walking or strength training to improve blood circulation and vascular function.
- Manage stress and monitor cholesterol and blood pressure frequently.
- Most importantly, avoid smoking and alcohol completely.
