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Frequently Asked Questions

Berkeley Life NO Foundation™ is a practitioner-grade nitric oxide support supplement made in the United States. It delivers clinically studied dietary nitrates that help support healthy circulation, endothelial function, and cardiovascular health.
Unlike L-arginine supplements, Berkeley Life uses a nitrate-based pathway to support nitric oxide production — a pathway that remains effective as we age.

NO Support works through the nitrate → nitrite → nitric oxide pathway.

1. Dietary nitrate is absorbed in the digestive tract.
2. It is concentrated in the salivary glands.
3. Oral bacteria convert nitrate to nitrite.
4. Nitrite is converted into nitric oxide in the body as needed.

This pathway bypasses age-related decline in the L-arginine (NOS) pathway and supports sustained nitric oxide production.

Each 2-capsule serving contains:

• 500 mg proprietary blend
• A minimum of 314–400 mg dietary nitrate

This is comparable to the nitrate content found in approximately:

• 5 oz of raw spinach
• 7 oz of beets

The recommended adult dose is:

2 capsules daily

Some individuals may benefit from:

• Splitting the dose (1 capsule morning, 1 capsule evening)
• Temporary higher therapeutic dosing under practitioner supervision

Always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider.

Most people begin with:

• 2 capsules in the morning with breakfast
• 2 capsules in the morning with breakfast. You may also: Take on an empty stomach (wait ~30 minutes before eating)
• Split the dose morning and evening
• Take before bed (many report improved sleep quality)

There is no single "best" time — consistency is most important.

Nitric Oxide itself acts within milliseconds, but:

• Nitrite has a half-life of ~45 minutes
• Nitrate has a half-life of 6–8 hours

Clinical research on Berkeley Life shows elevated nitrate levels can persist for 24 hours after a single dose.
Daily intake helps maintain steady nitric oxide availability.

Some individuals with higher oxidative stress or inflammatory conditions may use:

• 3–4 capsules daily (split dosing).

This should be done under healthcare provider guidance and ideally monitored using Berkeley Life Nitric Oxide Test Strips.

Yes. Berkeley Life uses food-grade potassium nitrate derived for dietary use. It is chemically identical to the nitrate found in leafy green vegetables. Industrial-grade nitrates used in fertilizers or explosives are not used in our formula. If you can safely consume leafy greens, you can generally tolerate dietary nitrate supplementation.

Nitric oxide supports vasodilation and may lower blood pressure. If you are taking:

• Beta blockers
• ACE inhibitors
• ARBs
• Blood thinners
• PDE5 inhibitors

You should monitor blood pressure regularly and consult your healthcare provider before use. Many clinical trials on dietary nitrates include participants on blood pressure medication.

Because nitric oxide supports healthy blood flow, individuals on anticoagulants or antiplatelet therapy should consult their physician before use. We recommend discontinuing use before surgical procedures unless cleared by your doctor.

No. Berkeley Life uses dietary nitrates rather than amino acids to support nitric oxide production. This allows nitric oxide generation even when the L-arginine pathway is impaired with age.

These nutrients support:

• Red blood cell formation (B12)
• Endothelial health (Thiamine)
• Oxygen delivery
• Mitochondrial energy production

The doses included are considered safe and are commonly used in therapeutic nutrition.

Yes. Every batch undergoes:

• Heavy metal testing
• Microbiological testing
• Potency testing
• Certificate of Analysis (CoA) verification

Products are manufactured in the United States under cGMP (21 CFR Part 111) standards.

Yes. NO Support is non-GMO.

Nitric oxide is a signaling molecule that plays essential roles in circulation, immune response, and mitochondrial function. Under extreme oxidative stress, nitric oxide can form reactive nitrogen species. This is why a healthy lifestyle and antioxidant support are important. Dietary nitrates from vegetables — and Berkeley Life — are considered safe under normal physiological conditions.

Nitric oxide production naturally declines with age due to endothelial changes. While lifestyle measures can help maintain levels, many individuals choose long-term use to support circulation and healthy aging.

The test strips measure salivary nitrite levels (mMol concentration).
Salivary nitrite is a reliable indicator of nitric oxide activity through the nitrate pathway.

They use the Griess Reaction, an analytical chemistry method that detects nitrite in saliva.
The color change on the strip corresponds to nitric oxide availability.

In Berkeley Life's double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial:

• Salivary nitrite increased
• Plasma nitrite increased
• Test strip readings correlated with lab measurements

Test strips are not designed to measure plasma nitrite directly, but they provide a practical, validated surrogate marker.

For best results:

• Test before dosing
• Retest 90 minutes after taking 2 capsules

Avoid eating or drinking for 10 minutes before testing.

Possible reasons include:

• Oral microbiome imbalance
• Use of antibacterial mouthwash
• Recent antibiotics
• High oxidative stress
• Genetic variations

Daily use for 30–60 days may help rebuild nitrate reserves.

• Daily (first 30 days)
• Weekly after improvement
• Athletes may test more frequently.

Berkeley Life Nitric Oxide Test Strips are manufactured in Europe.

Berkeley Life Menopause & Heart Health Support is a two-capsule daily, non-hormonal formula designed to support women during perimenopause and postmenopause.
Each daily serving includes:

• 1 Nitric Oxide (NO) capsule providing ~250 mg dietary nitrates
• 1 Meno Blend capsule containing purified cytoplasmic pollen extract (PCP), turmeric, and rice bran

Together, they support:

• Reduction of hot flashes and night sweats
• Improved sleep quality
• Mood balance
• Energy and circulation
• Preventive cardiovascular support during estrogen decline

This formula is designed for:

• Women 40+ navigating perimenopause
• Postmenopausal women
• Women seeking non-hormonal support
• Women wanting to protect heart health as estrogen declines

It may be used by women who choose not to use hormone replacement therapy (HRT), as well as those currently using HRT who want additional vascular support.

As estrogen declines, nitric oxide production decreases. Estrogen normally supports endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), the enzyme responsible for producing nitric oxide in blood vessels. When estrogen levels drop:

• Nitric oxide production declines
• Blood vessels become less flexible
• Oxidative stress increases
• Vascular stiffness rises

This shift contributes to the increased cardiovascular risk seen after menopause. Supporting nitric oxide production is an important part of preventive vascular care.

The NO capsule provides dietary nitrates derived from:

• Potassium nitrate
• Beetroot extract
• Organic fermented beetroot powder

Plus supportive nutrients:

• Vitamin C (145 mg)
• Thiamine
• Vitamin B12 (100 mcg)
• Magnesium (38 mg)

Dietary nitrates convert to nitrite and then nitric oxide in the body, helping to:

• Improve circulation
• Support healthy blood pressure regulation
• Enhance oxygen delivery
• Support mitochondrial energy production
• Improve vascular flexibility

Clinical studies show consistent nitrate supplementation improves endothelial function and reduces arterial stiffness in postmenopausal women.

The Meno Blend contains:

• 500 mg purified cytoplasmic pollen extract (PCP)
• 300 mg turmeric powder
• 50 mg rice bran blend

Purified cytoplasmic pollen extract:

• Is non-hormonal
• Has the allergenic outer shell removed
• Modulates serotonin activity
• Helps regulate thermoregulation (body temperature control)
• Supports mood balance and sleep cycles

Its mechanism is similar to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), but without altering estrogen metabolism. Turmeric provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support, and research suggests curcumin may:

• Improve endothelial function
• Support mood balance
• Reduce systemic inflammation
• Support cardiovascular and metabolic health

Primary benefits include:

• Reduction in hot flashes
• Reduction in night sweats
• Improved sleep quality
• Mood stabilization
• Improved energy
• Support for heart health

Secondary benefits may include:

• Enhanced libido and lubrication
• Improved circulation
• Joint comfort support
• Improved exercise tolerance
• Metabolic support

Month 1:
Many women notice fewer hot flashes and improved sleep onset.

Month 2:
Mood stability and energy may continue improving.

Month 3: Clinical research on dietary nitrates shows measurable improvements in vascular function at 12 weeks. Individual results vary.

The menopause formula combines nitric oxide support with the pollen blend for complementary benefits. One NO capsule provides foundational vascular support while the Meno Blend addresses vasomotor, mood, and sleep symptoms. Women who previously used two NO capsules daily may:

• Transition to the menopause formula alone
• Add an additional NO capsule if needed
• Monitor nitric oxide levels using Berkeley Life Test Strips

Consult your healthcare provider for personalized dosing.

Yes.
This formula is non-hormonal and may complement HRT by supporting vascular function and circulation.
Always consult your prescribing provider before combining therapies.

This product is contraindicated with SSRI medications.
Purified cytoplasmic pollen extract may influence serotonin reuptake. Combining it with SSRIs may increase the risk of excessive serotonin levels.
Consult your healthcare provider before use.

The pollen extract used is purified cytoplasmic extract with the allergenic outer shell removed.
However, women with severe pollen allergies should consult their healthcare provider before use.

Nitric oxide supports vasodilation and may influence blood pressure.
Women taking blood pressure medications should monitor their levels and consult their healthcare provider before use.

Nitric oxide supports healthy blood flow, which plays a role in female sexual function, including lubrication and orgasm response.
Many women report improved sexual wellness when nitric oxide levels are optimized.

Yes.
Test strips measure salivary nitrite and help confirm nitric oxide activity.
Testing 90 minutes after taking your NO capsule can help personalize dosing.

Take:

• 1 NO capsule
• 1 Meno capsule

Daily with food, preferably in the morning. Consistency is key.

No.
This formula is completely non-hormonal and does not contain estrogen, progesterone, or phytoestrogens in therapeutic amounts.

Yes.
The ingredients are intended for daily use and long-term support. As menopause is a transition affecting long-term cardiovascular health, consistent use may be beneficial.
Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Nitric oxide production begins in the mouth. When you chew the gum:

1. Dietary nitrates are released.
2. Oral bacteria convert nitrate to nitrite.
3. Nitrite becomes nitric oxide in the body.

The gum acts as a prebiotic, feeding nitrate-reducing bacteria on the tongue and helping restore a healthy oral microbiome.

Approximately 25% of circulating nitrate is recycled through the salivary glands. If oral bacteria are disrupted by:

• Antibacterial mouthwash
• Antibiotics
• Smoking
• Chronic inflammation

The nitrate-to-nitrite conversion process may be impaired.
The gum helps support this foundational step.

We recommend chewing for at least 5 minutes.
This ensures adequate exposure of oral bacteria to dietary nitrates.
Chewing longer is not harmful, but most of the nitrate exposure occurs within the first 5 minutes.

Yes.
There are no known risks to chewing longer. However, after 5 minutes, the majority of the active nitrate content has already been utilized.

The gum supports the oral microbiome step of nitric oxide production. For systemic nitric oxide support, many individuals use:

• Capsules for whole-body nitrate delivery
• Gum for oral microbiome optimization

They can be used together.

No artificial flavors are used.
Packaging may reference "natural flavors" due to regulatory labeling guidance.

The gum contains sorbitol, maltitol, xylitol, and isomalt. These are:

• GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe)
• 21 CFR–approved sugar alcohols
• Used to support compressibility and texture
• Beneficial for oral microbiome balance

Xylitol in particular has research supporting reduction of pathogenic oral bacteria.

Yes.
Berkeley Life Nitrate Prebiotic Gum is 100% plastic-free.

The gum contains xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs.
Keep out of reach of pets.

Yes.
If your nitric oxide test strips do not increase after capsule use, this may indicate oral microbiome imbalance.
Using the gum daily for 30 days may help restore nitrate-reducing bacteria and improve test strip readings.

Nitric oxide–supportive therapies are not generally contraindicated in AFib.
However, individuals with cardiovascular conditions should consult their healthcare provider and monitor nitric oxide levels using test strips.

Yes.
Antibiotics may temporarily disrupt oral bacteria.
Using nitrate gum during and after antibiotics may help reestablish a balanced oral microbiome.