N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant that comes from the amino acid L-cysteine. This antioxidant serves numerous purposes, one of which includes preventing cancer.
What Are The Health Benefits Of NAC?
1. Improving insulin sensitivity in people with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): NAC can confer protection on insulin receptors and also influence their activity during secretion from the pancreas cells. NAC plays a significant role in improving insulin resistance. NAC improves insulin resistance and lowers cholesterol levels. The better part is that these women did not experience gastrointestinal side effects which they experienced when taking metformin.
2. Antioxidant Effect: Women with PCOS have been shown to experience an increased level of oxidative stress compared to women without PCOS. This rate of oxidative stress can result in cell damage and also promote inflammation which can worsen the metabolic aspects of PCOS. However, NAC which is a very powerful antioxidant, fights oxidative stress and greatly reduces inflammation.
3. Treating Tylenol Overdose: N-acetylcysteine is the go-to medication used in the treatment of an acetaminophen overdose. It is thought to provide cysteine for glutathione synthesis and also possibly to create an adduct directly with the toxic metabolite of acetaminophen, N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine.
4. Decreases Damage to the Liver and Kidneys: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) may occur in women with PCOS. This type of liver disease often occurs as a result of high insulin and triglyceride levels. NAC may be able to improve liver function by reducing the level of oxidative stress in those with MASLD.
5. May Prevent Certain Cancers: Researchers found that NAC, which was used in the treatment of common colds, can also prevent the growth of cancer cells. NAC does this by cutting down the amount of proteins that they require to survive.
6. Neurologic Support: NAC’s ability to replenish glutathione plays a significant role in regulating brain glutamate levels and can improve brain health. Glutathione assists in the reduction of brain cell oxidative damage that occurs during aging. NAC offers assistance in the regulation of glutamate levels and replenishment of glutathione.
7. Assists with Respiratory Issues by Breaking Up Mucus/Secretions: NAC effectively relieves symptoms of respiratory issues using its antioxidant properties. It acts as an antioxidant and expectorant thereby loosening mucus in the air passage.
How to Take NAC?
There is no exact dietary recommendation for the intake of cysteine because the body can produce small amounts. NAC can be administered intravenously or orally as a spray or in liquid or powder form.
What are the Side Effects?
When provided as a prescription medication to adults, NAC is safe. However, high amounts of NAC may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Inhalation of NAC solutions may result in effects like swelling in the mouth, runny nose, drowsiness, and chest tightness.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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