Dietary nitrates are gaining traction as a sports performance enhancer.
Abundant in leafy greens and beetroot, nitrates are converted in the body to nitric oxide, which plays a vital role in blood flow regulation and metabolic control.
It helps widen blood vessels, reduces blood pressure, and protects against infections.
A limited ability to produce nitric oxide has been linked to health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and erectile dysfunction.
Some people take nitrates as a supplement to help with exercise.