Women naturally have higher nitrite levels in their blood than men, which may help explain why women typically have lower blood pressure than men.
Scientific Claim
Baseline plasma nitrite concentration is higher in females compared to males (2.1±0.2 μmol/L vs 1.5±0.1 μmol/L), which correlates with lower baseline blood pressure in females.
Original Statement
“In addition, whereas baseline plasma nitrate concentration was similar between the sexes, plasma nitrite concentration was significantly higher in the females (Table S2). Additionally, the female volunteers had significantly lower baseline SBP, DBP, and body mass index (Table S2) compared with the male volunteers.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
This is a descriptive finding of baseline differences between sexes. The language 'correlates with' appropriately reflects the observed relationship without implying causation.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Inorganic Nitrate Supplementation Lowers Blood Pressure in Humans: Role for Nitrite-Derived NO