What three compounds does nitric oxide assist in metabolically regulating?

Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes, particularly in vascular function and nutrient regulation. Specifically, it assists in the metabolic regulation of glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids.

When it comes to glucose, nitric oxide helps in enhancing insulin sensitivity, thereby facilitating glucose uptake in tissues. This regulation is vital as it influences energy production and overall metabolic health.

In terms of fatty acids, nitric oxide can influence their transport and utilization, particularly in muscle tissues where it can enhance blood flow and improve the delivery of fatty acids for energy during physical activity.

For amino acids, nitric oxide is involved in protein synthesis and the regulation of blood flow, which can impact muscle recovery and growth. The synthesis of nitric oxide can stimulate the release of essential growth factors, further aiding in amino acid utilization for anabolic processes.

The other options focus on compounds that do not directly relate to the primary metabolic roles highlighted above, such as vitamins, minerals, or water, which are essential but do not have the same direct connection to the metabolic impacts of nitric oxide. Hence, glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids are the appropriate compounds associated with the functions of nitric oxide in metabolic regulation.