A Comprehensive Guide to NAC: Health Benefits and Dosing Information

on Feb 21, 2023
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N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is a supplement that has been studied for its potential health benefits. It is a form of the amino acid cysteine and is often used in medical settings to treat acetaminophen overdose or to help loosen mucus in people with respiratory conditions. NAC has also been studied for its potential benefits in various other health conditions.

Health Benefits

Here are some of the health benefits of N-Acetylcysteine (NAC), a supplement that has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects:

  • Boosts glutathione levels in the body, a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals
  • Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, supporting overall health and well-being
  • Supports liver health by neutralizing toxins and reducing inflammation in the liver
  • Improves insulin sensitivity, which is important for overall health and well-being
  • Helps to loosen mucus in the lungs, which can be helpful for people with respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis or cystic fibrosis
  • Reduces inflammation in the lungs and improves breathing in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • Improves cognitive function in people with conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease
  • Protects the brain from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.

Boosts Glutathione

One of the most well-known benefits of NAC is its ability to boost glutathione levels in the body.

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. By increasing glutathione levels, NAC may help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This, in turn, may help to support overall health and well-being.

Liver Health

NAC has also been studied for its potential benefits in supporting liver health. The liver is responsible for filtering toxins out of the body, and NAC may help to support this process by increasing levels of glutathione, which helps to neutralize toxins.

Additionally, NAC may help to support liver function by reducing inflammation in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity.

Respiratory Health

Another potential benefit of NAC is its ability to support respiratory health. NAC has been shown to help loosen mucus in the lungs, which can be helpful for people with respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis or cystic fibrosis.

Additionally, NAC may help reduce lung inflammation and improve breathing in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Brain Health

NAC may also have benefits for brain health. Studies have suggested that NAC may help to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as improve cognitive function in people with conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

NAC may also help to protect the brain from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.

Dosage

When it comes to dosing, the optimal dose of NAC can vary depending on the specific health condition being treated. Generally, 600 to 1800 mg per day have been used in clinical studies. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the supplement label or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Side Effects

While NAC is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache.

NAC may also interact with certain medications, such as nitroglycerin and activated charcoal. S

peaking with a healthcare professional before taking NAC is important, especially if you currently take any medications or have any underlying health conditions.

Take Away

In conclusion, N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is a supplement that has been studied for its potential health benefits, including supporting liver health, respiratory health, brain health, and overall well-being. While the optimal dose can vary depending on the specific health condition being treated, doses ranging from 600 to 1800 mg per day have been used in clinical studies. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking NAC, especially if you currently take any medications or have any underlying health conditions.




Blood Clots

1 User Review
1 star (1) 
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Posted by Jill (Kentucky) on 02/05/2022
1 out of 5 stars

I have had 3 blood clots in my femoral artery. Two have been while taking NAC. I am now taking serrapeptase, nattokinase and lumbrokinase. These enzymes all work differently. Look into them and I think you will be happy. You can still get NAC at iHerb.

Replied by Tiffany
(Texas)
03/04/2023

Just curious, NAC is not indicated for blood clots, so what were you taking it for?


Prevents Flu and Colds

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
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Posted by Jayna D. (Southern CA) on 02/20/2023
5 out of 5 stars

I have been taking Swanson Vitamins' NAC 600 mg. capsules since 2009 and have not had any flu, Coronavirus, and COVIDS since then. No flu shots either. It's about $10.00 a bottle. Child: 1/Day Adult: 2/Day This is a very good supplement for the whole body! I post publicly and freely on MeWe.


Pulmonary Fibrosis

2 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  100%


Posted by Robert H. (Galveston, Texas) on 02/16/2016
5 out of 5 stars

IPF: After a triple coronary bypass about 2011 about 3 months later I noticed a continuing discomfort around my upper left side of my chest. A referral by my cardiologist to a pulmonary specialist discovered my IPF. He prescribed an albuterol compound for my nebulizer and to sleep all night with oxygen. By my second lung function text it showed a rapid deterioration in my ability to process ambient air. The Dr. arranged for me to receive a new medication called Esbriet (54 mg daily)with little results.

I located a holistic doctor who is a board certified doctor of internal medicine with 29 years of experience caring for mostly refinery workers which fit my life profile perfectly. She put me on 1800 mg of Nac daily and later Nac liquid for my nebulizer. My last lung function test after about 3 months on this protocol showed about 7% improvement across the board, which pleased her greatly. She recommended that I consider 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide intravenously 2 times a week for the next 10 weeks. I have located someone who will do this and I will begin this treatment as soon as I save up the money. I'l let ya'll know what happens.


Pulmonary Fibrosis
Posted by Chris (Seattle, WA) on 12/31/2008
5 out of 5 stars

NSIP Pulmonary Fibrosis:

Just diagnosed at mild to moderate stage, but had been taking NAC with Selenium twice a day and also herbal Clear Lungs, very helpful with breathing. I need it in the emergency dose of every 4 hours. The product does not claim to be a cure, but does claim to help breathing and it does and acts quickly as it claims. No side effects. My MD recommended Selenium via Brazil Nuts. My specialist prescribed more NAC, but also Prednisone, Azathioprine,whose side effects sound so horrific it seems I would be sicker than I am now.

The Albuterol spray was given at the testing site, to which I immediately felt ill and had a severe headache. I have severe congestion of the tonsils. Is this usual, the doc thought it was unrelated. I have to avoid wind, fans, forced hot air etc because it sets me off, also I have allergies.Particularly to dust and dairy.

I certainly intend to try your suggestions. Would love any input and advice. Blessings to all.