A new study in the February issue of Cell Metabolism showed an improvement in the amount of oxygen needed by individuals while exercising after taking a small does of inorganic nitrate for a few days. The findings may point to just one more of the many benefits of eating dark leafy greens.
Interestingly enough, the researchers said the amount of nitrate was equivalent to about what is in a plate of spinach. Maybe Popeye was on to something, ay?
Dietary nitrate, naturally derived from foods, feeds into a pathway that produces nitric oxide with the help of healthy bacteria found in our mouths. Nitric oxide is a well known important physiological component for the body in exercise as it opens blood vessels and lowers blood pressure.
What was also very interesting about the study was that increased mitochondrial efficiency of the cell (needing less oxygen), apparently is owed to the lower levels of proteins… proteins that normally make the mitochondria “leaky” and inefficient.
However, the definite takeaway is that dark leafy greens continue to shine in their benefit to the body. Spinach, kale, collards, and chards are all good choices to incorporate more into your diet.
