Exploring the Impact of Alternative Sources of Dietary Nitrate Supplementation on Exercise Performance.

An increase in the level of nitric oxide (NO) plays a key role in regulating the human cardiovascular system (lowering blood pressure, improving blood flow), glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, and may help enhance exercise capacity in healthy individuals (including athletes). This molecule is formed by endogenous enzymatic synthesis and the intake of inorganic nitrate (NO 3 - ) from dietary sources. Although one of the most well-known natural sources of NO 3 - in the daily diet is beetroot ( Beta vulgaris ), this review also explores other plant sources of NO 3 - with comparable concentrations that could serve as ergogenic aids, supporting exercise performance or recovery in healthy individuals. The results of the analysis demonstrate that red spinach ( Amaranthus spp.) and green spinach ( Spinacia oleracea ) are alternative natural sources rich in dietary NO 3 - . The outcomes of the collected studies showed that consumption of selected alternative sources of inorganic NO 3 - could support physical condition. Red spinach and green spinach have been shown to improve exercise performance or accelerate recovery after physical exertion in healthy subjects (including athletes).