Effects of inorganic nitrate on physical performance in older subjects
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Effects of dietary nitrate supplementation on muscular strength and oxygen cost during submaximal exercise in older subjects
IRAS ID
137932
Contact name
Mario Siervo
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN19064955
Research summary
As subjects got older, their muscle and strength began to decline. Decline in muscle function played a primary role in this process. The effects seemed to be mediated by an increased production of a little molecule, called nitric oxide, which had important effects on muscular function. Nitric oxide was continuously produced by specific cells in the arteries called endothelial cells. Previous research had reported that inorganic nitrate, a substance commonly presented in drinking water and at higher concentration in green leafy vegetables and beetroot, could improve muscular function in young healthy men. This substance could also lower blood pressure and glucose levels in healthy subjects. The main purpose of this study was to test whether inorganic nitrate could improve both muscular and physical function in 20 older subjects.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2
REC reference
14/NS/0061
Date of REC Opinion
23 Apr 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion