N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a supplement form of of the amino acid cysteine. Cysteine is a “conditionally essential amino acid”. A conditionally essential amino acid is considered to be a non-essential amino acid that becomes essential when you’re sick, stressed or injured, but NAC has received many plaudits in the natural health world in recent years because it has a plethora of health benefits. When you take NAC the body converts it into cysteine and then into glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant. Glutathione is best known for repairing damaged cells in the body. It may help ward off a variety of diseases, such as neurological disorders, liver disease, certain heart conditions, autoimmune disorders, respiratory diseases, and other medical conditions.

Antioxidants fight free radicals, which are harmful compounds in the body that damage cell membranes and DNA. Researchers think free radicals play a role in aging as well as the development of a number of health problems, including heart disease and cancer.

NAC can help prevent side effects caused by drug reactions and toxic chemicals, and helps break down mucus in the body. It seems to have benefits in treating some respiratory conditions, such as bronchitis and COPD.

Here are some of the benefits of taking NAC…

NAC plays an important role in your body’s detoxification process. It can help prevent side effects of environmental toxin exposure. Doctors regularly give intravenous NAC to people with an acetaminophen overdose to prevent or reduce kidney and liver damage. NAC has applications for other liver diseases thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

By regulating glutamate levels in your brain, NAC may alleviate symptoms of mental health conditions and reduce substance use and cravings.

By helping replenish the antioxidant glutathione and regulate glutamate, NAC has the potential to treat conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

NAC may help improve fertility in men by reducing oxidative stress that damages or kills reproductive cells. It may also aid fertility in women with PCOS.

By decreasing inflammation in fat tissue, NAC may reduce insulin resistance and improve blood sugar regulation.

NAC can reduce oxidative damage to your heart, which can, in turn, decrease your risk of heart disease.

NAC’s ability to boost glutathione levels may improve immune function.

 

Suggested dose: NAC is best absorbed on an empty stomach. Take one to two capsules a day.

Disclaimer: Do not exceed the stated dose. Not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult your health professional if taking medication or have an existing medical condition. Food supplement: should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. We are not responsible for any adverse reactions to our products.