The Effects of Nitrate, Caffeine, and Cold Exposure on Cardiovascular Function.

Does Dietary Nitrate Supplementation Attenuate the Cardiovascular Strain Elicited by Caffeine and Cold Exposure in Healthy Individuals?

Dietary inorganic nitrate supplementation may have positive implications on cardiovascular function. The aim of this project is to determine if nitrate supplementation can attenuate the effects that caffeine and cold exposure have on the cardiovascular system.

Acute caffeine consumption and cold exposure elicit negative effects on the cardiovascular system. Humans are regularly exposed to such conditions of increased cardiovascular strain, which may lead to elevated chronic cardiovascular risk. On the other hand, dietary inorganic nitrate supplementation is well established to improve cardiovascular function in healthy individuals. Thus, acute nitrate supplementation may compensate for the negative effects that caffeine and the cold place on the cardiovascular system. These effects will be measured using peripheral blood pressure, pulse wave analysis, heart rate variability, forearm blood flow, flow mediated dilation, and blood and saliva markers.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Blood pressure < 130 mmHg systolic and < 85 mmHg diastolic. BMI between 18.5 and 29.9 kg/m2. Females must be naturally menstruating (regular length cycle and menses) or using a form of combined hormonal contraception (for at least 6 months).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Existing cardiovascular or metabolic conditions. Experience any adverse reactions to experimental procedures or supplements. Allergies to supplements or breakfast items. Involved in any other studies. Blood pressure > 130 mmHg systolic and > 85 mmHg diastolic.