N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) is an amino acid that can help with many health concerns. It is well known for its mucolytic properties which means that it makes mucus less thick and sticky and easier to cough up. Specifically, research has shown that NAC increases the mucocilary clearance rate by 35% when compared to no effect by placebo. With this property NAC is very useful for people with a chronic cough, chronic congestion, chronic sinusitis, chronic bronchitis, COPD, allergies, etc. In people with COPD NAC showed a reduction in the following symptoms: viscosity of sputum, severity of coughing, the number of bacteria in the airways, the number and severity of influenza-like episodes. It is also a potent antioxidant, liver protector and enhances detoxification. Newer research has been looking at NAC as a treatment for mood disorders like depression and OCD. There have been promising results thus far and clinically it can be very helpful.
NAC is a precursor to glutathione in the body which is the main antioxidant in our system that prevents oxidative damage to cells. It is important to note that it is thought that if taking NAC orally it will help enhance glutathione production. When looking to boost glutathione levels we prefer to use intravenous (IV) forms. In cases where we recommend NAC we also tend to recommend avoiding mucous forming foods such as: cow and goat dairy products (milk, cheese, butter, yogurt), eggs, refined sugars and occasionally orange juice, bananas and peanuts. This helps to decrease the formation of mucous before it starts. Saline sprays and nasal irrigation can help as well to decrease congestion directly and food sensitivities may cause inflammation that can aggravate symptoms as well.
NAC is a precursor to glutathione in the body which is the main antioxidant in our system that prevents oxidative damage to cells. It is important to note that it is thought that if taking NAC orally it will help enhance glutathione production. When looking to boost glutathione levels we prefer to use intravenous (IV) forms. In cases where we recommend NAC we also tend to recommend avoiding mucous forming foods such as: cow and goat dairy products (milk, cheese, butter, yogurt), eggs, refined sugars and occasionally orange juice, bananas and peanuts. This helps to decrease the formation of mucous before it starts. Saline sprays and nasal irrigation can help as well to decrease congestion directly and food sensitivities may cause inflammation that can aggravate symptoms as well.
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