Unlock superior circulation and vitality with CircO2 lozenges. Discover how L-Citrulline, Beet Root, and Hawthorn support NO production, exercise performance, and healthy blood pressure.
Advanced Bionutritionals’ CircO2 blend features Beet Root, L-Citrulline, and B12. Learn the science behind nitric oxide for heart health, ED support, and muscle recovery.
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Table of Contents
1. The Foundational Science of Nitric Oxide
◦ What is Vasodilation?
◦ The Importance of Healthy NO Levels
2. CircO2: Analyzing the Proprietary Blend
◦ L-Citrulline: Blood Flow and Performance
◦ Beet Root Powder: The Power of Dietary Nitrate
◦ Hawthorn Berry: Support for Cardiovascular Health
◦ Vitamins C and B12
3. Scientifically Backed Benefits of Nitric Oxide Supplementation
◦ Support for Cardiovascular Health and Blood Pressure Regulation
◦ Enhancing Exercise Performance and Muscle Recovery
◦ Role in Treating Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
◦ Implications for Type 2 Diabetes Management
4. CircO2 Product Integrity and Quality
◦ Manufacturing Standards and Expert Formulation
◦ Dietary Compatibility (Vegan, Non-GMO, Allergen-Free)
◦ Dosage and Administration (Lozenges)
5. Safety Profile and Considerations
◦ Common Side Effects
◦ Contraindications and Drug Interactions
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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1. The Foundational Science of Nitric Oxide
Nitric oxide (NO) is more than just a performance booster; it is a fundamental molecule required for various biological processes. It serves a critical role in supporting healthy circulation. Since supplements that increase nitric oxide production may also offer benefits for managing specific health conditions, they have become highly sought after.
What is Vasodilation?
Nitric oxide acts as a powerful vasodilator. This means that NO relaxes the inner layer of the blood vessel muscles, prompting the vessels to widen. The primary consequence of this widening, or vasodilation, is an increase in blood flow throughout the body and a corresponding decrease in blood pressure. Wider blood vessels are essential because they ensure better delivery of oxygen and nutrients to working muscles during physical activity.
The Importance of Healthy NO Levels
Maintaining optimal nitric oxide levels is vital for comprehensive health. Furthermore, impaired nitric oxide production is a common issue in people dealing with certain chronic conditions. For instance, individuals with high blood pressure are often thought to have a reduced ability to utilize the nitric oxide their body produces. High blood pressure, defined as a systolic blood pressure above 130 mmHg and/or a diastolic blood pressure above 80 mmHg, can eventually lead to severe health problems like heart disease and kidney disease.
While NO supplements do not contain the nitric oxide molecule itself, they utilize compounds that the body converts into NO. The two amino acids most commonly found in these supplements are L-citrulline and L-arginine.
2. CircO2: Analyzing the Proprietary Blend
CircO2 is manufactured by Advanced Bionutritionals, a brand specializing in cutting-edge nutraceuticals. CircO2 is offered as quick dissolve lozenges, making them easy and convenient to take, especially for people who are traveling or on the go.
The proprietary Nitric Oxide Blend in CircO2 contains several well-researched ingredients intended to stimulate, nourish, and strengthen the body from within. The blend includes Vitamin C, B12, Beet Root Powder (root), Hawthorn Berry Extract (berry), L-Citrulline, and Sodium Nitrite.
L-Citrulline: Blood Flow and Performance
L-citrulline is a vital amino acid present in the CircO2 formula. L-citrulline supports blood flow and overall well-being by enhancing nitric oxide production, which helps reduce blood pressure. It is also linked to improving exercise performance, aiding muscle recovery, and supporting kidney health. L-citrulline is particularly beneficial for those aiming to optimize their cardiovascular health or athletes seeking performance advantages. Research indicates that L-citrulline may be a worthwhile performance enhancer.
Beet Root Powder: The Power of Dietary Nitrate
Beetroot powder is a nutrient-dense component of CircO2, specifically chosen for its high concentration of nitrates. When ingested, the body converts these nitrates into nitric oxide. This conversion is key to the health benefits associated with beetroot, including improved circulation, enhanced blood flow, and reduced blood pressure. This enhanced circulation contributes to improved exercise performance and may reduce muscle fatigue, supporting better recovery.
Studies have shown that consuming dietary nitrate, found abundantly in beetroot and dark leafy greens like arugula and spinach, can significantly help lower blood pressure. A review of 43 studies found that participants who drank beetroot juice experienced a decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressures by an average of 3.55 and 1.32 mmHg, respectively.
Hawthorn Berry: Support for Cardiovascular Health
The CircO2 formula includes Hawthorn Berry Extract. Hawthorn berry is recognized as a natural remedy with potential benefits for heart health. It may work by lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow directly to the heart muscle. In addition to its cardiovascular effects, Hawthorn berry may offer calming effects that help reduce stress and anxiety, may aid digestion, and contains antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage.
Vitamins C and B12
CircO2 also includes Vitamin C and Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is specifically listed as the primary supplement type in the product details. Ensuring adequate Vitamin C intake, along with the other premium ingredients, is key to the product’s goal of delivering superior results.
3. Scientifically Backed Benefits of Nitric Oxide Supplementation
The benefits derived from nitric oxide supplements are closely linked to their vasodilating effects. By promoting vasodilation, NO supplements support the delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.
Support for Cardiovascular Health and Blood Pressure Regulation
Nitric oxide's role as a vasodilator is central to heart health. By relaxing and dilating blood vessels, NO effectively lowers blood pressure. Vegetables and fruits contain compounds such as nitrate and flavonoids that help maintain blood pressure control by increasing overall nitric oxide levels. Flavonoids, found in nearly all fruits and vegetables, possess powerful antioxidant properties and are believed to increase NO production while simultaneously decreasing its breakdown.
High blood pressure, which can lead to health issues such as heart disease, is often associated with a diminished ability to use nitric oxide. Supplements containing nitrate, such as those derived from beetroot, have been shown in multiple studies to help lower blood pressure.
Enhancing Exercise Performance and Muscle Recovery
The popularity of nitric oxide supplements among athletes and recreational gym-goers stems from the promise of enhanced performance. Increased blood flow, enabled by wider blood vessels, means that more oxygen and nutrients reach the muscles actively working during exercise.
Supplements that increase NO, like those containing nitrate or L-citrulline, have shown promise as performance enhancers. In multiple analyses, nitrate has been shown to improve exercise performance across various activities, including cycling, running, swimming, and kayaking. Conversely, the amino acid L-arginine has generally not been proven effective for improving exercise performance, potentially because it is often metabolized or broken down before entering the bloodstream. Research suggests that NO supplements may enhance exercise tolerance, particularly in people who exercise moderately or do not exercise regularly.
Additionally, L-citrulline, often in the form of citrulline malate, is associated with decreasing muscle soreness, or delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Citrulline malate is thought to reduce discomfort that typically peaks 24–72 hours after strenuous exercise. By increasing blood flow to active muscles, citrulline malate is hypothesized to boost nutrient delivery and aid in the removal of waste products linked to muscle fatigue, such as lactate and ammonia. Some studies have shown a significant reduction in muscle soreness (up to 40% less) at 24 and 48 hours post-exercise when citrulline malate was taken, though results regarding the 72-hour mark have been inconclusive.
Role in Treating Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in erectile function. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to achieve or sustain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. NO is necessary for the muscles within the penis to relax, which allows blood chambers to fill, resulting in an erection.
Supplements such as L-citrulline, L-arginine, and French maritime pine bark extract have been shown to increase nitric oxide levels and thus may help treat ED. L-citrulline, in particular, was found in one study to improve erection hardness in individuals with mild ED. While L-citrulline was less effective than prescription drugs like Viagra, it proved to be generally safe and well tolerated. Older studies also found that combining L-arginine and French maritime pine bark extract significantly enhanced sexual function in people with ED, and this combination appears safe when taken together.
Implications for Type 2 Diabetes Management
Individuals living with type 2 diabetes often experience reduced nitric oxide production, which compromises blood vessel health and can lead to serious conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, and high blood pressure over time.
Supplements that boost nitric oxide levels may hold significant implications for both the management and prevention of diabetes. Studies focusing on L-arginine have demonstrated that supplementation can significantly lower insulin levels in people without diabetes. Furthermore, L-arginine was found in a 2012 study to improve blood sugar control and increase insulin sensitivity, although it did not prevent the progression of diabetes in the participants. However, there is conflicting research, as some findings show no effect of L-arginine on blood sugar control or fasting blood sugar levels in people already diagnosed with diabetes. Due to the mixed evidence, experts currently advise that it is premature to recommend L-arginine supplements specifically for the management or treatment of diabetes until further research becomes available.
4. CircO2 Product Integrity and Quality
Advanced Bionutritionals emphasizes a dedication to providing high-quality, natural supplements. The company sources its ingredients from trusted suppliers and maintains strict quality control standards.
Manufacturing Standards and Expert Formulation
Advanced Bionutritionals is committed to manufacturing high-quality nutraceuticals. The formulas are developed by leading health experts, including Dr. Janet Zand, Dr. Greg Eckel, Dr. Frank Shallenberger, and Steve Kroening, ensuring that the products are based on innovative health solutions and backed by years of clinical experience and research. The company ensures quality by testing multiple lots of material for purity and screening them for pathogens such as yeast, mold, salmonella, and staph. CircO2 products are manufactured in facilities that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and the product itself is made in the USA.
Dietary Compatibility (Vegan, Non-GMO, Allergen-Free)
CircO2 is designed to be highly compatible with various dietary needs and restrictions. The formula is certified vegan and does not contain any genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Additionally, the lozenges are formulated to be free from common allergens, specifically excluding gluten, wheat, corn, nuts, seeds, eggs, soy, or dairy.
Dosage and Administration (Lozenges)
CircO2 is distributed as 30 quick dissolve lozenges per unit. This format is convenient for daily use, allowing individuals to support healthy nitric oxide production easily when traveling or throughout the day.
5. Safety Profile and Considerations
For the majority of people, nitric oxide supplements are generally safe when consumed in appropriate doses. However, it is essential to be aware of potential risks and side effects.
Common Side Effects
When side effects do occur, they are usually mild. Potential side effects of nitric oxide boosters may include stomach pain, heartburn, bloating, headache, nausea, and heart palpitations. Specifically, L-arginine, when taken in high doses—above 10 grams—may lead to diarrhea and stomach discomfort. A visually noticeable, yet harmless, side effect of consuming supplements containing beetroot juice is that it can turn both urine and stool a dark red color.
Contraindications and Drug Interactions
While safe for most, some individuals should exercise caution or completely avoid nitric oxide supplements due to potential health risks.
People diagnosed with certain conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use, especially those with:
• Cirrhosis: Individuals with scarring of the liver should take NO supplements with caution as they could potentially worsen liver function.
• Low Blood Pressure: Since nitric oxide supplements inherently lower blood pressure, individuals already dealing with low blood pressure should not take them due to the risk of lowering blood pressure further.
• Guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency: This rare genetic condition involves a deficiency in an enzyme required to convert arginine into creatine, a waste product; consequently, people with this deficiency should avoid nitric oxide supplements.
• History of Heart Attack: There are concerns regarding the use of these supplements after a heart attack. One study, published in 2006, found that individuals who took L-arginine following an acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) experienced a higher likelihood of death, re-hospitalization, or a repeat heart attack compared to those who did not take the supplement.
Nitric oxide supplements also carry the risk of interfering with or potentiating the effects of existing medications, particularly those prescribed for high blood pressure and diabetes. Due to these potential interactions and safety concerns, anyone considering taking CircO2 or any other nitric oxide booster should first consult with a doctor or dietitian. Furthermore, doctors recommend that anyone taking nitric oxide supplements should cease use before undergoing surgery.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The following FAQ addresses common queries related to nitric oxide supplementation, drawing directly from the research and product information available in the sources:
Q1: Do nitric oxide supplements, such as CircO2, actually contain nitric oxide?
No, nitric oxide supplements do not contain the nitric oxide molecule itself. Instead, they are formulated with compounds—such as the amino acids L-citrulline and L-arginine, or nitrates found in beetroot—that the human body can use as precursors to increase its natural production of nitric oxide.
Q2: What is the primary function of nitric oxide in the body?
Nitric oxide is a key molecule naturally produced by the body, serving a critical role for blood vessel health. Its primary function is vasodilation: it relaxes the inner muscles of blood vessels, causing them to widen. This action increases blood flow and subsequently helps to reduce blood pressure. This mechanism allows for enhanced oxygen and nutrient delivery throughout the body, including to working muscles during exercise.
Q3: How effective is the L-citrulline in CircO2 for exercise performance compared to L-arginine?
Research indicates that L-citrulline and nitrate (found in Beet Root Powder) may be worthwhile performance enhancers, particularly by increasing blood flow and nutrient delivery to active muscles. Conversely, L-arginine has often not proven effective for improving exercise performance in many studies, potentially because much of the ingested L-arginine is broken down before reaching the bloodstream. CircO2 contains L-citrulline and Beet Root Powder, which are the ingredients favored by research for performance benefits.
Q4: Can CircO2 help treat high blood pressure?
The compounds found in CircO2, specifically nitrate (from Beet Root Powder) and L-citrulline, are linked to lowering blood pressure. When the body converts dietary nitrate to nitric oxide, it causes blood vessels to relax and widen, which helps to lower blood pressure. Several studies have found that nitrate supplements can significantly reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Additionally, the Hawthorn Berry Extract included in the blend may also contribute to improved heart health by lowering blood pressure. However, individuals with existing high blood pressure should consult a physician, especially since these supplements may interfere with prescribed high blood pressure medications.
Q5: Are there specific groups of people who should avoid taking nitric oxide supplements?
Yes, there are certain medical conditions that contraindicate the use of nitric oxide supplements, or require extreme caution. People with cirrhosis (liver scarring), pre-existing low blood pressure, or a rare genetic condition called Guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency should not take these supplements. Caution should also be exercised by individuals who have had a heart attack, as one study linked L-arginine supplementation to increased risk of complications in this group. Furthermore, doctors recommend stopping nitric oxide supplements before any scheduled surgery. Always consult a doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.
Q6: What makes CircO2 easy to take?
CircO2 Nitric Oxide Supplements are formulated as easy-to-take, quick dissolve lozenges. This lozenge form makes them convenient for consumption on the go, during travel, or whenever needed to support healthy nitric oxide production.
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