Norvaline
Most nitric oxide products on the market work by telling the body to increase nitric oxide production. As one would expect, this is a proven and effective way to produce a pump. However, some supplements include l-norvaline for a round-about approach to nitric oxide.
While norvaline is not a widely used ingredient at this time, there is strong science indicating it increases nitric oxide, and therefore allows for increased pumps, blood, oxygen, and nutrient delivery to muscle cells.
What it does
Norvaline is prized for its ability to inhibit the arginase enzyme[1][2][3]. Inhibition of the arginase enzyme is an often overlooked way to produce huge pumps as well as forcing them to last for far longer than most products can provide. As with all bodily functions, when one hormone or compound significantly increases, there is an equal and opposite hormone or enzyme that is used to reduce it and keep it in check.
When Nitric Oxide increases, the body utilizes the arginase enzyme to eliminate excess levels quickly. By using an arginase inhibitor, it becomes possible to not only increase nitric oxide levels, but to keep those levels elevated for significantly longer periods of times than one is capable of doing otherwise. This means stronger and longer lasting pumps.
How it works
Norvaline works by inhibiting the arginase enzyme. The arginase enzyme is the bane of all pump chasers, as its actively seeks out and eliminates nitric oxide in the body. By inhibiting this enzyme, the body is less likely to decrease its nitric oxide production, leaving you with higher levels of nitric oxide for significantly longer periods of time.
Dosing
While most companies provide norvaline in extremely low doses, for best results a dose of 100-200mg approximately 30-45 minutes prior to exercise is suggested.