Tag: Endothelial function

Chronic treatment with tadalafil has been shown to significantly improve flow-mediated dilation (FMD), a key measure of endothelial function, in men with increased cardiovascular risk. This improvement demonstrates that the medication's effects extend beyond its well-known applications, pointing to broader vascular benefits.

Studies show that low serum folate levels are associated with a significantly increased risk of fatal coronary heart disease [1.11.1]. This has led to extensive research asking: **does folic acid improve blood circulation** and overall cardiovascular health through its various metabolic roles?

Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine (TMG), is a compound naturally found in foods like beets and spinach that acts as a methyl donor. The question of *does betaine increase nitric oxide* is complex, with research suggesting both indirect mechanisms and conflicting human study results regarding circulating levels.

Statins are one of the most widely prescribed medications globally, with millions of adults taking them for cardiovascular health. For many, the benefits extend beyond blood test results, leading to the question, 'Why do I feel better on statins?'.

Over 200 million people worldwide take statin drugs for heart health, yet many are surprised to find they simply feel better after taking statins, beyond just seeing their cholesterol numbers drop. This improvement in well-being often comes from the medication's wide-ranging 'pleiotropic' effects that go far beyond their primary function of lowering LDL cholesterol.

In a 2021 study involving isolated rat pulmonary artery rings, betaine demonstrated concentration-dependent vasodilatory effects through an endothelium-dependent mechanism involving inward rectifier potassium channels. Building on this and other research, the question "Is betaine a vasodilator?" warrants a nuanced answer, exploring its indirect pathways through metabolism and its potential impact on cardiovascular health.

While some preliminary studies have shown that high concentrations of L-lysine can increase forearm blood flow, the evidence suggests its role is not that of a primary vasodilator. Instead, its effects on the cardiovascular system appear to be complex and indirect, contrasting significantly with the mechanism of the potent vasodilator L-arginine. This article explores the nuanced pharmacology behind the question, 'Is L-lysine a vasodilator?'

According to a 2018 study published by Karger Publishers, a combination of vitamin D3 and L-Arginine was shown to induce a significantly higher production of nitric oxide (NO) in cardiac and endothelial cells compared to either supplement alone. This suggests a cooperative effect when you take vitamin D and L-Arginine together, particularly for cardiovascular health.