N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC)

Product Details

Sulfur Smell: NAC is a supplement with a characteristic sulfur or egg smell. This is normal. The product has not gone bad.

N-acetyl L-cysteine (also known as NAC and acetylcysteine) is the acetylated form of L-cysteine. L-Cysteine is a semi-essential, sulfur-containing amino acid that is an important structural component in many proteins. 

L-cysteine forms bonds with glutamine and glycine to synthesize glutathione, an antioxidant tripeptide. However, external factors like free radicals, illness, and stress deplete glutathione levels. NAC supplements boost the availability of l-cysteine, which accelerates glutathione production.

Potential Benefits of NAC Supplements

Supplementation of L-cysteine via N-acetyl L-cysteine may support the immune system by improving the availability of glutathione. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that scavenges free radicals and activates natural killer cells. When glutathione levels deplete, the body is much more vulnerable to free radical damage. Boosting glutathione levels can help repair this damage.

NAC also reduces the damaging effects of oxidative stress, which may support heart health. NAC may also benefit heart health by improving blood flow and increasing glutathione concentrations in red blood cells.

NAC supplements may support the body’s detoxification process and liver health. Toxic substances often suppress glutathione levels, which NAC may counteract by preserving glutathione availability.

NAC also has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. Its ability to reduce inflammation, loosen mucus, and boost glutathione levels may improve lung function. NAC’s anti-inflammatory properties also extend to fat cells, which may help regulate blood sugar.

NAC may provide dermatological benefits as well. NAC accelerates wound healing, which may help acne lesions to resolve faster. NAC may also improve acne healing time by reducing free radicals. NAC may also help restore the skin’s natural barrier and reduce skin inflammation.

When to Take NAC: Morning or Night?

Individuals can take NAC supplements in the morning or at night. However, NAC supplements metabolize into the amino acid l-cysteine. As certain foods can affect amino acid absorption, individuals should take NAC on an empty stomach. Wait at least one hour after eating for maximum absorption. Keep NAC in a cool and dry location to maximize its shelf-life.

Potential NAC Supplement Side Effects

NAC is well-tolerated by most individuals. Excessive doses of NAC may cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. Individuals taking blood thinners should not take NAC, as it may slow clotting.

References

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6523540/
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6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5241507/
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23118587
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/677146
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20097726
10. http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/16/2/253.short
11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19328229
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17. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18338948/
18. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3036554/

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