Nitrates in Pre-Workout Supplements

Pump Ingredients are one of the most important, yet underrated, parts of pre-workout supplements. Of all the pump ingredients out there, Nitrates are some of the most powerful.

Nitrates are used by the human body to produce Nitric Oxide, which plays a huge role in Vascular Function. This process is crucial because blood’s main job in the body is to transport Oxygen and nutrients. A lack of blood flow can lead to serious health problems, including Fatigue, slow recovery, digestive issues, and even DEATH.

How Nitrates Work

When ingested, nitrates (NO3) are converted into nitrites (NO2) by bacteria in the mouth. These Nitrites are then metabolized in the stomach, producing Nitric Oxide (NO). This nitric oxide increase leads to vasodilation and improved blood flow.

Beyond circulation benefits, nitric oxide enhances mitochondrial respiration (ATP production), Glucose uptake, and muscle contractile function. In most supplements, nitrate doses range from 1g-4.2g, with the upper limit being nearly twice the standard clinical dose.

The Most Common Nitrate Source

The most widely used nitrate in the supplement industry is the patented NO3-T from ThermoLife. This nitrate binds to Arginine, Citrulline, Creatine, and even Sodium, improving bioavailability and providing an additional pathway for Nitric Oxide Production.

Why Nitrates Matter More Than Stimulants

Many gym-goers focus only on stimulants in their pre-workout (myself included, as the King Stim Junkie of the company). However, while stimulants offer benefits, they also have drawbacks.

• High caffeine intake can increase blood pressure, making it harder for the heart to pump blood.


• Nausea may occur if your body isn’t used to processing high stimulant levels.


• Late consumption can disrupt your circadian rhythm, delaying sleep and slowing recovery.

These issues can be managed by timing stimulant intake correctly and ensuring your pre-workout includes nitric oxide boosters (like Nitrates!) to counteract blood pressure spikes.

Products That Contain Nitrates

• Core Nutritionals’ PEAK
• Arms Race Nutrition’s Daily Pump
• Merica Labz F’n Red, White and BOOM
• Unmatched’s Dissident
• I-Prevail’s Mission Pre
• Ryse’s Pump Daddy
• Apollon’s Bare Knuckle
• Inspired Nutraceuticals’ FSU Nitrum
• MANsports Vasojet
• Project AD’s Stampede
• Cutler Nutrition’s Prevail Rush