Nitrosigine is a patent-protected substance composed of arginine and silicon. It’s a common ingredient in pre-workout powders and other sports nutrition products. It is also said to improve blood flow and workout performance, among other claims.
This article will explore the benefits and limitations of Nitrosigine, and investigate the impact of this substance on exercise, cognition, and health. We will also look into its adverse effects to help you decide if this supplement is right for you. Now, let’s begin.
Table of Contents
What is Nitrosigine?
Nitrosigine is a substance that has gained popularity in the sports supplement business. Produced by Nutrition 21, Arginine and silicon are the two main components of nitrosigine.
Arginine is an amino acid that is essential for the formation of nitric oxide.
Silicon is a mineral needed for the strength and flexibility of bones, skin, and nails.
Combining these two substances has led to claims that this supplement can enhance exercise performance, cognitive function, and general wellness.
How Does Nitrosigine Work?
Nitrosigine increases the levels of nitric oxide (NO) in the body. Nitric oxide is an important chemical for controlling blood flow, neurotransmission, and immunological function. [1]
It is distinct because it mixes arginine and silicon in a bonded state, allowing for superior absorption and retention in the body compared to other arginine supplements.
Its enhanced absorption and retention may contribute to its reported performance and cognitive benefits. However, additional research is necessary to completely comprehend the methods through which it functions in the body and its potential benefits and hazards.
What are the Benefits of Nitrosigine?
1. Improved Blood Flow
Studies have shown that Nitrosigine is directly responsible for increased blood flow and improved vascular function, leading to better nutrient delivery, improved oxygenation, and enhanced exercise performance. [2]
Physiological body functions, such as oxygen and nutrient transport to the tissues and organs, require healthy blood flow. And optimum blood flow can assist in regulating blood pressure, preventing the formation of blood clots, and promoting a healthy immune system.
Also, nitric oxide is a naturally occurring gas that is involved in a variety of physiological activities. It aids in regulating blood flow through the dilatation of blood arteries, allowing for increased blood flow.
An increase in blood flow may also be advantageous to individuals with high blood pressure, as studies have shown that nitrogen can reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. [3]
So for athletes and active individuals, improved blood flow can also result in greater endurance, enhanced performance, and speedier recovery times.
2. Increased Endurance
Since nitric oxide plays a crucial role in enhancing blood flow, Nitrosigine has also been linked with enhanced athletic performance, and possible cognitive benefits. [1] By improving blood flow, nitrosigine also improves muscular endurance and energy generation. [2]
In one study, participants who took the supplement for four weeks showed greater endurance during exercise than those who received a placebo. [1]
In addition to enhancing endurance, it can help facilitate post-exercise recovery. The increased blood flow may enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to working muscles.
Also, the enhanced recuperation speed may also result in greater overall performance, allowing individuals to work out more frequently and with greater intensity.
3. Enhanced Cognitive Function
Nitrosigine has also shown the potential to enhance cognitive functions. One study discovered that it increased cognitive function and working memory. [4] These advantages may result from increased brain blood flow and enhanced nutrition delivery.
In addition to the possible benefits on blood flow, it’s capacity to boost Nitric Oxide (NO) levels in the body. Nitric oxide facilitates communication between brain nerve cells. This could explain why Nitrosigine may have cognitive benefits.
Nitric oxide is a major neurotransmitter in the brain, and plays a significant function in learning and memory. Hence, Nitrosigine may promote cognitive function and enhance working memory by increasing NO levels.
4. Erectile Dysfunction
There is current evidence suggesting that Nitrosigine can benefit patients with erectile dysfunction.
One study shows that those who took this supplement had better erections than those who received a placebo. [5] These advantages may be the result of increased blood supply to the penis.
Although the study’s findings for erectile dysfunction are encouraging, further pharmaceutical studies must be deemed conclusive.
It’s important to understand that there are various underlying factors to consider for erectile dysfunction, such as psychological disorders, hormone imbalances, and certain health diseases.
So while it may possess potential benefits for people with erectile dysfunction, it is not a substitute for approved medications or treatments for this condition.
5. Antioxidant Properties
Nitrosigine may also possess antioxidant properties that protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage. This makes Nitrosigine beneficial for general overall health while contributing to enhanced performance. [6]
However, it is important to note that excessive antioxidant intake may not necessarily lead to greater benefits and may even be harmful in some cases. It is important to consume antioxidants in moderation and following recommended daily intake levels.
What are the Side Effects of Nitrosigine?
Nitrosigine is generally considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses. However, some people may experience side effects like headaches, nausea, or stomach discomfort. These side effects are generally mild and resolve on their own.
Its potential side effects may vary depending on the individual and their current health status. For example, individuals who are pregnant, nursing, or have underlying health conditions may be more susceptible to experiencing side effects.
Additionally, combining it with other supplements or medications may increase the risk of side effects.
If you experience any side effects while taking this supplement, speaking with a healthcare provider is important.
In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend reducing your dose of Nitrosigine or discontinuing use altogether if the side effects persist or worsen.
What are the Risks of Using Nitrosigine?
Potential side effects may vary based on the individual and their current health status. People who are pregnant, nursing, or have underlying health concerns may be more sensitive to this substance.
Also, mixing it with other supplements or drugs may raise the likelihood of adverse consequences.
If you encounter any negative effects while using this supplmement, you should contact your healthcare practitioner immediately.
Also, if adverse effects persist or worsen, your healthcare professional may consider lowering your Nitrosigine dosage or discontinuing use altogether.
Does Nitrosigine work?
Although studies have indicated that Nitrosigine can have potentially positive benefits for exercise performance, cognitive function, and erectile dysfunction, additional study is required to substantiate these benefits.
The quality of the existing research is inconsistent, with some studies demonstrating substantial advantages and others demonstrating no significant effects.
Make sure to take these potential advantages with a grain of salt and consult a healthcare professional for more information.
Bottom Line: What is Nitrosigine? Benefits and Side Effects
Nitrosigine’s potential benefits in enhancing exercise performance, promoting cardiovascular health, and enhancing cognitive function have made it a popular dietary supplement in recent years.
However, research on this dietary supplement is still in its infancy, and additional studies are needed to completely comprehend its benefits and identify possible negative effects.
While Nitrosigine appears to be safe for most individuals when taken at the prescribed dosage, there are still some potential hazards to be aware of, particularly for those with underlying medical issues or those taking other medications.
Before beginning any new supplement, it is usually advised to consult a healthcare practitioner.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Rogers JM, Gills J, Gray M. Acute effects of Nitrosigine® and citrulline malate on vasodilation in young adults. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2020 Feb 24;17(1):12. doi: 10.1186/s12970-020-00343-y. PMID: 32093766; PMCID: PMC7041093.
- Romain, C., Freitas, T. T., Simal-Gandara, J., Remaud, G. S., & Gougeon, R. D. (2021). Combined acute ingestion of citrulline and arginine, aspartic acid and nitrosigine® supplementation does not improve cycling performance in trained male cyclists. Nutrients, 13(1), 181. doi: 10.3390/nu13010181
- Kalman DS, Feldman S, Samson A, Krieger DR. A clinical evaluation to determine the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of an inositol-stabilized arginine silicate dietary supplement in healthy adult males. Clin Pharmacol. 2015 Oct 7;7:103-9. doi: 10.2147/CPAA.S84206. PMID: 26504409; PMCID: PMC4603712.
- Kapil V, Khambata RS, Robertson A, Caulfield MJ, Ahluwalia A. Dietary nitrate provides sustained blood pressure lowering in hypertensive patients: a randomized, phase 2, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Hypertension. 2015 Feb;65(2):320-7. doi: 10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.114.04675. Epub 2014 Nov 24. PMID: 25421976; PMCID: PMC4288952.
- Burnett AL. The role of nitric oxide in erectile dysfunction: implications for medical therapy. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2006 Dec;8(12 Suppl 4):53-62. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-6175.2006.06026.x. PMID: 17170606; PMCID: PMC8109295.
- Shaun A. Mason, Adam J. Trewin, Lewan Parker, Glenn D. Wadley. Antioxidant supplements and endurance exercise: Current evidence and mechanistic insights. Redox Biology. Volume 35. 2020. 101471. ISSN 2213-2317. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.redox.2020.101471.