The article discusses the many benefits of NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is an antioxidant with numerous potential health benefits. It boosts glutathione levels and helps with most states of increased oxidative stress that underlie chronic health problems. Read on to uncover all its benefits.
NAC is short for N-Acetylcysteine. NAC is transformed into cysteine in the body. Cysteine is the most important amino acid that makes glutathione, the body’s strongest antioxidant.
Cysteine levels determine how fast glutathione is made, NAC is essential in replenishing levels of this antioxidant in the body. Glutathione removes free radicals from cells and activates detox pathways.
NAC can directly fight free radicals, acting as a powerful antioxidant.
Its antioxidant effects protect DNA, cells, tissues, and organs from damage, inflammation, and harmful substances.
NAC can also break down and soften mucus, which can improve lung diseases.
NAC has been thoroughly researched. The number of clinical, animal, and cell studies that explored the benefits of NAC are almost impossible to list. Close to a thousand clinical trials of NAC exist alone.
Benefits:
Boosts Glutathione Production – A Powerful Antioxidant
Reduces Respiratory Symptoms in Chronic Lung Disease (like COPD)
Prevents Oxidative Damage and Inflammation
May reduce Flu illness
May Improve Brain Health
May Help Prevent Heart Disease
May Enhance Immune Function by Increasing Glutathione and Modulating Inflammation
May Reduce Inflammation and Symptoms Related to Influenza and Viral Illness
May Help Autoimmunity by Reducing Inflammation
NAC Supports Detoxification and Protects Your Kidneys and Liver
May Reduce Psychiatric and Addictive Disorders
May Improve Fertility in Both Men and Women
May Improve Symptoms of PCOS
May Help to Stabilize Blood Sugar
Supports a Healthy Microbiome
May Help gum health
NAC could reduce the effects of traumatic brain injuries during combat, according to a study of 81 US soldiers [115].
May Reduce leaky gut
May improve Bone Health
May help with Muscle Fatigue and Inflammation
May improve skin health including acne
May improve hearing loss
May help in reducing toxins, Heavy Metals and pesticides
Thanks to SelfHacked for this article
142 Science references included and Evidence Based
NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine)
Written by Ana Aleksic, MSc (Pharmacy) | Last updated: October 7, 2020
Medically reviewed by Jonathan Ritter, PharmD, PhD (Pharmacology), Puya Yazdi, MD
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