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What is the supplement NAC? NAC stands for N-Acetyl-cysteine. It comes from the amino acid L-cysteine. It has many health benefits and has been used for many years for Liver problems and many other health conditions. NAC comes in prescription and over the counter varieties. Always check with your doctor before you take any medications or supplements.
N-Acetylcysteine, or NAC, is an altered form of the amino acid cysteine used in supplements. The body converts NAC to cysteine, which is then converted to glutathione, an antioxidant. The antioxidant glutathione is one of the most important substances for healthy liver function. Antioxidants like gluthathione fight free radicals in the body that can damage cells and DNA.
The latest study says that from the year 2000-2016 the rate of liver cancer in the U.S. increased 43%. This study was released on 7/17/18 and is from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics. This could be due to obesity rates, the opioid crisis, and Hepatitis C. Hepatitis C numbers are increasing due to the baby boomer population.
Liver Problems And More Health Conditions That NAC Can Help With
-Liver problems like liver disease, liver cirrhosis/damage from alcohol abuse or fatty liver disease, and liver damage and failure due to acetaminophen toxicity. Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in Tylenol and is in many over the counter and prescription products. Reducing liver damage of any kind long term with greatly reduce your risk for liver cancer in the future. The sooner you take care of your liver the better. And continue to take NAC and monitor your liver blood test numbers with your doctor.
-Kidneys. Reduces kidney damage from acetaminophen poisoning. NAC treats complications of kidney dialysis and reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke in kidney disease patients..
-COPD and breathing issues such as asthma, emphysema, pneumonia, bronchitis, or cystic fibrosis.
-Antioxidant used to counter act carbon monoxide poisoning and may also prevent certain cancers.
-Reduces the toxicity of certain cancer drugs.
-Used to treat some forms of epilepsy, ear infections, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
-Can help detoxify the body of heavy metals like mercury, cadmium, and lead.
If you have an ailment or condition not listed here, do a search for your issues and I am willing to bet that NAC can work for you. There are many studies showing the effectiveness of NAC for a wide variety of health problems. The supplement NAC is widely available for purchase at online retailers and in brick and mortar stores.
Natural Ways To Increase NAC Levels
NAC is not found naturally in food sources; however cysteine is present in most high protein foods. Remember that NAC turns into cysteine. Meats such as chicken, pork, turkey, sausage, and duck all contain the amino acid cysteine. Lunch meats and fish also contain cysteine. Dairy sources of cysteine include ricotta cheese, cottage eggs, cheese and yogurt.
There are also plant sources of cysteine for vegetarians or vegans. cysteine is in oat flakes and granola. It is also in vegetables like onions, red pepper and broccoli are significant sources of cysteine. Other plant sources of cysteine include soybeans, bananas, garlic, wheat germ and linseed. Low levels of cysteine in the diet may cause liver problems including damage, muscle weakness, muscle loss, apathy, lowered immunity and slower growth in children.
As Always
Consult your medical-care provider before taking NAC supplements. Too much NAC can create too much cysteine which may raise another amino acid associated with heart disease. Possible side effects of NAC can occur at any dose and can include vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. Oral administration of NAC may cause a severe allergic reaction and can develop into a life-threatening condition.
I also want to say that I use this daily. I have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This has helped me lower my numbers. It may work for you as well just be sure to check with your doctor before you try it.
