Compositions and methods for improving nitric oxide levels in a subject, comprising administering to a subject, a composition comprising dietary nitrate derived from potassium nitrate, beet root (whole plant, powder, plant extract), and/or nitrate-rich leafy green portions (whole plant, powder, plant extract) that improve functional nitric oxide levels in subjects as shown by increasing salivary bioconversion of nitrate to nitrite, a necessary a required step for nitric oxide mediated health benefits. The disclosed novel compositions improve cardiac health, lowers blood pressure, intraocular pressure, and LDL and restores nitric oxide mediated cardiovascular benefits, including but not limited, restoring endothelium function and improving flow mediated dilation.