Cysteine is a semi-essential amino acid that the body can produce from other amino acids, namely methionine and serine. Cysteine is found in most protein-rich foods, such as chicken, yogurt, cheese, eggs, sunflower seeds, and legumes. Here are the main benefits of NAC:
- It is a precursor of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals that damage the body’s cells and tissues.
- Helps prevent or reduce kidney and liver damage by also reducing the side effects of drugs and environmental toxins
- It can improve mental disorders and addictive behavior. For people with bipolar disorder and depression, NAC can help reduce symptoms and improve brain function
- Helps relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions. In a year-long study, taking 600 mg of NAC twice daily significantly improved lung function and symptoms in people with COPD
- Helps promote brain health by regulating glutamate involved in a wide range of learning and memory activities.
- Increasing glutathione levels can improve immune function. In two studies in HIV patients, NAC led to a significant increase in immune function along with almost complete recovery of natural killer cells
Recommended dosage and limitations
Typically, a daily intake of 600 mg of NAC is suggested, which can also be increased to 1200 mg per day. NAC is generally well tolerated; however, in large amounts it can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. People with bleeding disorders or those taking anti-aggregants or anticoagulants should not take NAC, as it can slow blood clotting
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