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They are one of the less well-known supplements, but they’re as important for overall health and well-being as any other. So what are NAC supplements? Liam Holmes, owner of pH Nutrition and foodspring ambassador, explains…
Many of us take supplements to help give us all the vitamins and minerals we need to lead healthy, active lives. The likes of magnesium, zinc and iron, as well as vitamin D and vitamin B12, are all popular supplements and have a variety of benefits.
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But one equally important supplement, NAC, is not so well known. Yet it can guard against chronic respiratory conditions and promote fertility, immune function and brain health. So, should we be taking NAC supplements?
What Are NAC Supplements?
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is the supplement form of cysteine, which is a conditional or semi-essential amino acid.
It bonds with glutamine and glycine to form glutathione, which is the body’s most powerful antioxidant. Glutathione is crucial for overall health and well-being as it helps support antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways.
NAC supplements are worth considering to make up for a lack of cysteine in your diet
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By reducing oxidative stress, NAC can help to lower your risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and infertility.
NAC also helps to boost nitric oxide production, which can improve your blood flow and lower your heart attack risk.
There is also evidence to suggest that NAC may help to improve fertility in men. A study in The Journal Of Urology found that men supplementing with both NAC experienced an increase in sperm quality.
How Much NAC Do We Need?
Cysteine is considered semi-essential because your body can produce it from other amino acids, namely methionine and serine. It becomes essential only when dietary intake of methionine and serine is low.
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The dosage that is advised is around 1.4-1.8g per day split into 2-3 servings across the day.
Cysteine is found in most high protein foods, such as chicken, turkey, yogurt, cheese, eggs, sunflower seeds, and legumes. Taking NAC supplements will ensure you are getting enough cysteine to enjoy the health benefits of this important amino acid.
Liam Holmes is an ambassador for nutrition and fitness resource foodspring. He is also owner of pH Nutrition, which offers nutrition coaching programmes and personalised coaching. Check him out on Instagram @PH_Nutrition and @foodspring_UK.