Nitric oxide is a common part of the best supplement stacks, partly thanks to their research-backed effects on blood flow. But let’s make sure one thing is clear — even the best nitric oxide supplements aren’t actually made with nitric oxide. Instead, they’re a mixture of ingredients — primarily L-arginine and L-citrulline — that aim to boost nitric oxide production in the body.
Nitric oxide is a gaseous molecule that plays a crucial role in many biological functions — the side effects of nitric oxide include neurotransmission, inflammation, and vasodilation (AKA blood flow, AKA muscle pump). (1) While there’s still a need for more research regarding its effects on athletic performance, these purported benefits have customers searching for the best nitric oxide supplements on the market. If that’s you, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve tested dozens of products and scored them according to our testing methodology to find the best nitric oxide supplements available today.
The Best Nitric Oxide Supplements
- Best Nitric Oxide Supplement Overall: Transparent Labs Nitric Oxide
- Best Nitric Oxide Supplement on Amazon: Jacked Factory Nitro Surge
- Best Nitric Oxide Pills: Nutricost Nitric Oxide Booster
- Best Nitric Oxide Pre-Workout Supplement: Transparent Labs Bulk Black
- Best Nitric Oxide Stim-Free Pre-Workout Supplement: Legion Pulse Caffeine-Free
- Best Nitric Oxide Supplement for Circulation: Onnit Total Nitric Oxide
- Best Nitric Oxide Supplement for Blood Pressure: KOS Organic Beet Root Powder
- Best Nitric Oxide Supplement for Bodybuilding: Kaged Citrulline
Medical Disclaimer: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for the diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine.
Nitric Oxide Supplements Video Review
Don’t worry — we won’t leave a stone unturned in this review of our top nitric oxide supplements. But after you finish reading this article, head over to YouTube and check out what former BarBend editor Nick English, has to say in his video review of our top nitric oxide supplements of 2024.
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement Overall: Transparent Labs Nitric Oxide
Pump up your lifting sessions and get your blood flowing with Transparent Labs Nitric Oxide. It features a potent blend of arginine nitrate and betaine nitrate called NO3-T® dosed at 2,250mg. Each four-capsule serving also contains antioxidants and ingredients to aid in absorption to extract the most out of each serving.
Specs
- Key ingredients: Arginine nitrate, betaine nitrate, L-glutathione, vitamin C
- Serving size: 4 capsules
- Price per serving: $1.50
- Third-party testing: Yes, Informed Choice certified
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement on Amazon: Jacked Factory Nitro Surge
- Caffeine: 180mg
- Key Ingredients: 3g of l-citrulline, 1.6g of beta-alanine, 1.25g of betaine anhydrous, 1g of creatine hcl, 180mg caffeine, 90mg l-theanine, 75mg l-elevATP, 25mg AstraGin
- Flavors: Fruit Punch, Cherry Limeade, Blue Raspberry, Arctic White
- Price Per Serving: $1.16
Specs
- Key ingredients: L-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, caffeine anhydrous, L-theanine
- Serving size: 1-2 scoops
- Price per serving: $0.87-$1.73
- Third-party testing: No
Read our full Jacked Factory Nitro Surge Review.
Best Nitric Oxide Pills: Nutricost Nitric Oxide Booster
These capsules are a convenient way to take your nitric oxide supplement on the go. Plus, a full dose is only three pills — far less than many other brands on the market.
Specs
- Key ingredients: L-arginine, L-arginine HCL, L-citrulline, L-citrulline malate
- Serving size: 3 capsules
- Price per serving: $0.33
- Third-party testing: Yes
Best Nitric Oxide Pre-Workout Supplement: Transparent Labs Bulk Black
Transparent Labs BULK Black is one of the strongest pre-workout supplements on the market. This product comes in five delicious flavors and has high levels of must-have pre-workout ingredients, like caffeine, citrulline, and beta-alanine.
Specs
- Key ingredients: Citrulline malate, beta-alanine, natural caffeine, taurine, L-theanine, L-tyrosine
- Serving size: 1 scoop
- Price per serving: $1.83
- Third-party testing: Yes, Informed-Choice certified
Read our full Transparent Labs BulkBlack Review.
Best Nitric Oxide Stim-Free Pre-Workout Supplement: Legion Pulse Caffeine-Free
This pre-workout supplement can come with or without caffeine and in 16 different flavors. Each serving provides 350 milligrams of L-theanine and eight grams of citrulline, which may facilitate better pumps.
Specs
- Key ingredients: L-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous
- Serving size: 2 scoops
- Price per serving: $2.00
- Third-party testing: Yes
Read our full Legion Pulse Review.
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement for Circulation: Onnit Total Nitric Oxide
This product contains three grams of L-Citrulline DL-Malate, as well as mango fruit powder and fermented beets, which can all play a role in synthesizing nitric oxide. It comes in a sweet Harvest Fruit flavor.
Specs
- Key ingredients: Arginine nitrate, L-citrulline, fermented beets, mango fruit powder
- Serving size: 1 scoop
- Price per serving: $2.00
- Third-party testing: Yes, Informed-Sport certified
[Related: Types Of Supplements]
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement for Blood Pressure: KOS Organic Beet Root Powder
If you like short and easy to read ingredients lists you’ll love this organic product from KOS. It only contains one ingredients which is organic beet root powder. Each scoop contains 4,000mg of the stuff so you can get your beet powder in with no frills.
Specs
- Key ingredients: Organic beetroot powder
- Serving size: 1 scoop
- Price per serving: $0.3
- Third-party testing: No
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement for Bodybuilding: Kaged Citrulline
Each rounded scoop provides 2g of L-citrulline, which can help with exercise performance. Plus, the containers should last you a while — they boast 100 servings each.
Specs
- Key ingredients: Fermented L-citrulline
- Serving size: 1 rounded scoop
- Price per serving: $0.25
- Third-party testing: Yes, Informed-Sport certified
How We Tested and Chose the Best Nitric Oxide Supplements
There are many nitric oxide supplements out there, and while they boast impressive claims, very few have the science to back them up. Plus, the FDA doesn’t regulate sports nutrition supplements, adding another layer of mystery to your supplement choices. No need to worry because we’ve got you covered. Our testing team put dozens of nitric oxide supplements to the test, scoring them against BarBend’s supplement testing methodology.
The team, comprised of certified personal trainers, elite-level athletes, coaches, and registered dietitians, leaned into their professional judgments and personal experiences to provide you with as much information as possible to make an informed shopping decision. The testing team considered various factors, with a strong emphasis on the following:
- Ingredients: Nitric oxide supplements don’t contain nitric oxide but rather ingredients that support nitric oxide production. We examined the ingredients list and compared the formulations against what the latest research says. We looked for products that contained ingredients such as L-citrulline, citrulline malate, L-arginine, and beetroot extract.
- Dosing: Products might have all the right ingredients, but what’s the point if the doses aren’t backed by science? We checked the amounts per serving to ensure they are worth the investment.
- Side effects: Our testers noted any and all side effects they experienced while taking the nitric oxide supplement. Obviously, the goal of a nitric oxide supplement is to increase muscle pump. Our testers let us know whether or not they experienced the desired results and if they experienced any adverse effects.
- Price per serving: Budget can be a significant factor when adding another supplement to the stack. In today’s economy, it’s important that you get the most bang for your buck.
- Third-party testing: Transparency is critical when it comes to supplement shopping. The FDA does not regulate dietary supplements, so we like to see companies go the extra mile and send their products for lab testing to ensure safety and purity.
Benefits of the Best Nitric Oxide Supplements
Taking one of these supplements can have several benefits when included in a well-rounded lifestyle. The most notable is its influence on vasodilation. Nitric oxide can widen blood vessels, allowing for better blood flow and achieving the ever-desired “pump” at the gym. However, the benefits don’t stop there. Nitric oxide has also been connected to improved cardiovascular health through its role in circulation, heartbeat regulation, and nutrient delivery to the muscles. (11)
- Improved vasodilation: Nitric oxide supplements help promote improved vasodilation by widening the blood vessels to allow for increased blood flow. Improved blood circulation allows oxygen and nutrients to be delivered more effectively, supporting many avenues of health. (1)
- Improved blood pressure: By promoting the widening of blood vessels, these supplements can help reduce resistance to blood flow. Since the heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood through the vessels, it can lead to lower blood pressure. (11)
- Improved athletic performance: Nitric oxide supplements may help bring more oxygen and nutrients essential for energy production, thereby enhancing athletic performance by increasing muscle blood flow. Improved blood flow also removes metabolic waste more efficiently, reducing fatigue and improving endurance. (12)
- Potential Side Effects: Consider the potential nitric oxide side effects before adding them to your regimen. Some athletes could experience GI issues, headaches, or heart palpitations (among others), so consult your doctor before taking any new supplements.
Of course, however, it’s my duty as a registered dietitian to emphasize that you don’t need a nitric oxide supplement to see these benefits. A well-balanced diet, regular exercise, hydration, and optimal sleep can offer the same effects over time.
How Much Do The Best Nitric Oxide Supplements Cost?
As far as supplements go, nitric oxide supplements are generally inexpensive. When calculating cost, it’s better to look at the price per serving rather than the overall cost of the container. To do this, you’ll need to consider both the number of servings you’re getting and the overall cost of the product.
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement Overall | Transparent Labs Nitric Oxide | $44.99 $1.50 per serving |
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement for Blood Pressure | KOS Organic Beet Root Powder | $29.99 $0.33 per serving |
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement for Circulation | Onnit Nitric Oxide | $39.99 $2.00 per serving |
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement for Bodybuilding | Kaged Citrulline | $24.99 $0.25 per serving |
Best Nitric Oxide Pre-Workout Supplement | Transparent Labs Bulk Black | $54.99 $1.83 per serving |
Best Nitric Oxide Stim-Free Pre-Workout Supplement | Legion Pulse Caffeine-Free | $39.99 $2.00 per serving |
Best Nitric Oxide Supplement on Amazon | Jacked Factory Nitro Surge | $25.99 $0.87-$1.73 per serving, depending on the number of scoops |
Best Nitric Oxide Pills | Nutricost Nitric Oxide Booster | $19.95 $0.33 per serving |
What to Consider Before Buying Nitric Oxide Supplements
Nitric oxide supplements come in various forms and contain an equal variety of ingredients. Before choosing your perfect pick, ensure you know exactly what you want from your supplement.
Pill vs. Powder
Nitric Oxide supplements come in both pill and powder form. Neither is totally inconvenient, but pills are definitely the most convenient of the two, as you can easily throw a bottle in your bag, head out the door, and take a couple any time that works for you.
However, pills tend to digest slower than powder since your body has to break through the capsule. Therefore, if you’re looking for the nitric oxide supplement to kick in right away, a powder that you mix with liquid to consume directly is a better choice. Neither is more effective than the other overall — it’s all about your personal preferences and priorities.
Powder formulas lend enjoyability as a factor. If you enjoy tasty beverages or want to stay hydrated while working out, a powder formula can be a great way to do that. It’s also possible to find an unflavored powder to stack with your other supplements, which can help ensure you’re taking the supplements you want with the most ease.
Ingredients
When determining which nitric oxide supplement to choose, it’s wise to understand how much of each amino acid or other ingredient combinations are used. Each choice on our list has a different dosage for each amino acid. Some have very slim ingredient lists, while others are rather extensive. Still, both offer their own benefits.
Before you choose which nitric oxide to buy, make sure you know what ingredients and combinations of ingredients you want in your supplement so you are not overpaying for a more robust ingredient list than you need.
Speak to a Medical Professional
Nitric oxide supplements are not for everyone. Consult a medical professional before adding a nitric oxide supplement to your routine. If you decide to use a nitric oxide-boosting supplement, start slowly, as different compounds can affect some people differently. Instead of going straight for a full dose, it may be wise to start with a half dose and see how you feel. A medical doctor can help you make the right decision for your body.
Nitric Oxide Supplement FAQs
What is the best nitric oxide supplement?
Although many great products on the market may enhance nitric oxide production, we believe that Transparent Labs Nitric Oxide is the best nitric oxide supplement. It contains three ingredients that can support nitric oxide production, as well as AstraGin and vitamin C, which may make these ingredients more accessible to absorb.
What foods are high in nitric oxide?
While no foods contain nitric oxide, some contain nitrates that may help boost nitric oxide levels. Beets are among the most well-researched foods that may lead to higher nitric oxide levels.
Are there downsides to taking Nitric Oxide?
As with just about any supplement, different people can expect different side effects. Most common with Nitric Oxide, you may experience GI issues, headaches, or allergic reactions. However, this isn’t common for the majority. That being said, if you are taking other medications or have any preexisting conditions, it’s best to consult your doctor before you start taking this supplement.
References
- Andrabi SM, Sharma NS, Karan A, et al. Nitric Oxide: Physiological Functions, Delivery, and Biomedical Applications. Adv Sci (Weinh). 2023;10(30):e2303259. doi:10.1002/advs.202303259
- Jones AM, Vanhatalo A, Seals DR, Rossman MJ, Piknova B, Jonvik KL. Dietary Nitrate and Nitric Oxide Metabolism: Mouth, Circulation, Skeletal Muscle, and Exercise Performance. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2021;53(2):280-294. doi:10.1249/MSS.0000000000002470
- Schmitt B, Vicenzi M, Garrel C, Denis FM. Effects of N-acetylcysteine, oral glutathione (GSH) and a novel sublingual form of GSH on oxidative stress markers: A comparative crossover study. Redox Biol. 2015;6:198-205. doi:10.1016/j.redox.2015.07.012
- Ashor AW, Shannon OM, Werner AD, et al. Effects of inorganic nitrate and vitamin C co-supplementation on blood pressure and vascular function in younger and older healthy adults: A randomised double-blind crossover trial. Clin Nutr. 2020;39(3):708-717. doi:10.1016/j.clnu.2019.03.006
- Chen L, Zhu Y, Hu Z, Wu S, Jin C. Beetroot as a functional food with huge health benefits: Antioxidant, antitumor, physical function, and chronic metabolomics activity. Food Sci Nutr. 2021;9(11):6406-6420. Published 2021 Sep 9. doi:10.1002/fsn3.2577
- Morita M, Hayashi T, Ochiai M, et al. Oral supplementation with a combination of L-citrulline and L-arginine rapidly increases plasma L-arginine concentration and enhances NO bioavailability. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2014;454(1):53-57. doi:10.1016/j.bbrc.2014.10.029
- Bloomer RJ, Butawan M, Pigg B, Martin KR. Acute Ingestion of A Novel Nitrate-Rich Dietary Supplement Significantly Increases Plasma Nitrate/Nitrite in Physically Active Men and Women. Nutrients. 2020;12(4):1176. Published 2020 Apr 22. doi:10.3390/nu12041176
- Kiani AK, Bonetti G, Medori MC, et al. Dietary supplements for improving nitric-oxide synthesis. J Prev Med Hyg. 2022;63(2 Suppl 3):E239-E245. Published 2022 Oct 17. doi:10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2022.63.2S3.2766
- Gonzalez AM, Yang Y, Mangine GT, Pinzone AG, Ghigiarelli JJ, Sell KM. Acute Effect of L-Citrulline Supplementation on Resistance Exercise Performance and Muscle Oxygenation in Recreationally Resistance Trained Men and Women. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2023;8(3):88. Published 2023 Jun 22. doi:10.3390/jfmk8030088
- Douligeris A, Methenitis S, Lazou A, et al. The Effect of Acute Pre-Workout Supplement Ingestion on Basketball-Specific Performance of Well-Trained Athletes. Nutrients. 2023;15(10):2304. Published 2023 May 14. doi:10.3390/nu15102304
- Lundberg JO, Weitzberg E. Nitric oxide signaling in health and disease. Cell. 2022;185(16):2853-2878. doi:10.1016/j.cell.2022.06.010
- Jones AM, Thompson C, Wylie LJ, Vanhatalo A. Dietary Nitrate and Physical Performance. Annu Rev Nutr. 2018;38:303-328. doi:10.1146/annurev-nutr-082117-051622