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NAC (N-Acetyl-Cysteine)

What Is It?

NAC is produced in living organisms from the amino acid cysteine. Thus, NAC is a natural sulfur-containing amino acid derivative found naturally in foods and is a powerful antioxidant. These dual properties help repair oxidative damage in the body. Being a powerful anti-oxidant and cell detoxification co-factor, NAC works to eliminate your body of free radicals and heavy metals. This improves your cellular health tremendously.

How It Works

N-Acetyl-Cysteine is currently the dietary supplement of choice for building up cysteine or conserving the body's store of Glutathione, Cysteine and other Sulfhydryl anti-oxidant resources. This is very crucial for the body's life functions, as NAC helps the body neutralize toxins, heavy metals, such as mercury from dental amalgam fillings, cadmium and lead from paint and cigarette smoke. The Sulfhydryl balance has also been linked to enhance resistance to viral infections.

Indications

• Liver: NAC can help to prevent damage to the liver caused from overuse of acetaminophen (Tylenol). NAC is the standard medical treatment for acetaminophen overdose. It is prudent to take NAC whenever one uses acetaminophen.

• Lungs: NAC is an excellent mucolytic agent. It keeps the membranes of the respiratory system moist, thereby lessening the irritation of dry air, dust, and pollutants. It also helps the immune system to do its job properly in the respiratory tract. NAC is available as a prescription drug for this purpose, but you can buy NAC over the counter for far less money.

• Skin: The cysteine in NAC is an essential component in hair and nails. Some people find that it enhances hair growth and makes nails less brittle.

Potential Problems

While N-Acetyl Cysteine is a more stable compound than taking oral cysteine, as it is metabolized, some NAC may be oxidized and become insoluble. This may form kidney stones. It is therefore recommended that individuals taking NAC take at least as much vitamin C. Diabetics should consult their physician before using N-Acetyl-Cysteine, since it may have an insulin-blocking effect.