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N-Acetyl Cysteine

N-Acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an altered form of the amino acid cysteine, which is commonly found in food and synthesized by the body.

Recommended Dosage
600 to 1800 mg daily

How to Use It
Healthy people do not need to supplement with NAC. Optimal levels of supplementation remain unknown, though much of the research uses 250–2,400 mg per day.

Where to Find It
Cysteine, the amino acid from which NAC is derived, is found in most high-protein foods. NAC is not found in the diet.

Possible Deficiencies
Deficiencies of NAC have not been defined and may not exist.

Side Effects
One study reported that 19% of people taking NAC orally experienced nausea, vomiting, headache, dry mouth, dizziness, or abdominal pain. These symptoms have not been consistently reported by other researchers, however.

Although a great deal of research has shown that NAC has antioxidant activity, one small study found that daily amounts of 1.2 grams or more could lead to increased oxidative stress. Extremely large amounts of cysteine, the amino acid from which NAC is derived, may be toxic to nerve cells in rats.

NAC may increase urinary zinc excretion. Therefore, supplemental zinc and copper should be added when supplementing with NAC for extended periods.

Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
At the time of writing, there were no well-known interactions with this supplement. Because this supplement can increase levels of the antioxidant glutathione, patients being actively treated with chemotherapy should not take this product without first consulting with their healthcare practitioner.

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The information above is provided solely to aid consumers in discussing nutrition and supplementation with their healthcare providers. It is not advised nor is this information intended to advocate, promote, or encourage self-use of this information for cancer risk reduction.

Copyright © 2009 Aisle7. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of the Aisle7 content is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Aisle7. Healthnotes Newsletter is for educational or informational purposes only, and is not intended to diagnose or provide treatment for any condition. If you have any concerns about your own health, you should always consult with a healthcare professional. Aisle7 shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. AISLE7 is a registered trademark of Aisle7.

The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition, including cancer.