7 Foods & Drinks to Increase Nitric Oxide in the Body & Fight Viruses

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Nitric oxide is a crucial molecule that your body naturally produces, playing a vital role in your health. It relaxes blood vessels to improve circulation, enhances immune function, and supports cellular regeneration by activating stem cells. Additionally, nitric oxide helps defend your body by fighting off harmful bacteria and viruses. In the episode, I dive deeper into how this molecule works and share evidence-backed foods that can naturally boost your nitric oxide levels. Here's a preview of a few:

1. Beets (04:43)

Beets are at the top of my list—and for good reason. Eating beets (or drinking beet juice) can raise your nitric oxide levels by a whopping 21% in just three hours! Beets support heart and brain health and give your organs an oxygen boost.

➡️ Here’s how I like to use them: Add beets to a smoothie with berries or pineapple. The flavor of the beets fades, but the health benefits stay. Or make a vibrant beet salad—sprinkle on crushed pistachios and spices like coriander for a quick, delicious dish. And don’t forget the beet greens! Sauté them or throw them into a shake for extra vitamins and antioxidants.

2. Garlic (11:09)

Garlic isn’t just for adding flavor—it’s a natural nitric oxide booster. It activates an enzyme called nitric oxide synthase, which helps your body create more nitric oxide from the amino acids in your food.

➡️ Want to kick it up a notch? Try black garlic. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and has been naturally aged. It’s fantastic for your heart, helps lower bad cholesterol, and supports your immune system with allicin. Toss it into any savory dish—you’ll thank me later!

3. Dark Chocolate (16:52)

Dark chocolate is a heart-healthy treat full of polyphenols that stimulate nitric oxide production. Remember: the darker, the better. Look for chocolate that’s at least 80% cacao for maximum benefits.

➡️ How I enjoy it: A small piece with my coffee (black, of course) or mixing powdered dark chocolate into my coffee for a double health boost. Just make sure your chocolate is free of additives and chemicals that could harm your gut microbiome.

4. Pomegranate (21:58)

Pomegranates are packed with polyphenols, especially ellagitannins, which help protect nitric oxide from breaking down in your body. That means you get more mileage from the nitric oxide your body’s already producing.

➡️ Pro tip: Go for 100% pure pomegranate juice, not sugary blends. A small serving each day is all you need. Feeling adventurous? Add the seeds to salads or use the juice in dressings. It’s loaded with antioxidants that benefit your heart, brain, and immune system.

Watch the video for the full list of 7 foods and drinks to increase nitric oxide:

Love your food to love your health,
— Dr. William Li

World-renowned physician, scientist, and author of New York Times Best Sellers: Eat To Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself and Eat to Beat Your Diet: Burn Fat, Heal Your Metabolism, and Live Longer