NAC (n-acetyl-cysteine)

NAC Benefits

What is N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC)?

Are you looking to for a way to boost your antioxidant protection and stimulate detoxification? If so, the benefits of NAC may be just what the Naturopathic Doctor ordered!

N-acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is the supplemental form of the amino acid L-cysteine. While L-cysteine is present in many foods, NAC can only be supplied via supplementation. NAC is a precursor to glutathione – which is one (if not THE) of the most important antioxidants in the body and helps detoxify poisons and toxins in the liver, lungs, intestines, and kidneys. Glutathione is one-third glutamate, the most important neurotransmitter in your brain, so NAC has shown to be effective at reducing mood-based symptoms and improving cognitive and dopamine function. As a powerful antioxidant in its own right, NAC detoxifies heavy metals such as mercury and cadmium, protects cells from damage and assists immune cells in neutralizing invading microbes and viruses.

Benefits of NAC

• Breaks up Mucus in People with Respiratory Tract Infections/Conditions
• Balances Mood-Based Symptoms
• Increases Glutathione Levels
• Ramps-up Antioxidant Protection
• Stimulates & Supports Detoxification

Who Benefits From NAC?

NAC is often recommended by naturopaths for conditions such as low immunity (frequent colds and flus), asthma, chronic bronchitis, autoimmunity, chronic pain & inflammation, detoxification support and liver support. Interestingly, NAC has also been used as an antidote to acetaminophen poisoning for well over 50 years.

NAC Supplements

NAC is typically available either in capsule or powder form. There isn’t a set daily requirement for NAC or an “optimal dosage” that’s been determined. Ultimately, the optimal dose for you will be based on the condition you’re looking to address or the use its intended for.

A ballpark range is typically somewhere in the 600 to 1,800mg daily range, but certain chronic or degenerative conditions may require higher doses (higher doses can cause diarrhea, so dividing doses is best). In such instances, please speak to your health care practitioner. It’s recommended you start with a lower dose and build up until you reach desired effects.

When supplementing with NAC for antioxidant protection, taking it alongside other antioxidants such as vitamin e or CoQ10 can provide an elevated boost.

NAC may diminish the effects of antibiotics and insulin.

Final Thoughts

When selecting your NAC supplement, look for a product with clear dosing indications and always follow label instructions. While NAC is considered safe and effective, certain people may experience side effects such as indigestion or stomach upset, diarrhea, fatigue and drowsiness, sweating and skin rash. If you are on any recommendations medications, talk to your health care practitioner prior to adding NAC to your supplement routine.