Ergogenic effects of dietary nitrate

Intake of dietary nitrate, such as beetroot juice, has received a lot of attention the past few years because of possible performance-enhancing effects for athletes. This thesis describes various factors important to gain this effect. It shows nitrate-rich vegetables (such as beetroot and spinach) are the most effective sources of nitrate. Research among athletes also shows that high intensity athletes such as football players could benefit from dietary nitrate intake, whereas endurance athletes such as cyclists would not. The thesis concludes that nitrate stored in muscle tissue and could play an important part in providing beneficial effects in sports performance.