One of the most underestimated and underutilized natural food supplements I have recommended to my patients over the past 35 years is an amino acid derivative known as N-A-C (N-Acetyl-Cysteine).
Why underestimated? Well, even naturopaths seldom recommend it, and most people who take natural food supplements have never even heard of it. Yet, this supplement could be the difference between life and death.
What is N-A-C?
N-A-C is a form of the essential amino acid cysteine, something used by the body to make glutathione (GSH), one of the body’s most important antioxidants. In fact, all the benefits of N-A-C are due to the fact that it boosts blood levels of GSH. The major impact of N-A-C is on the
immune system, liver protection, detoxification, and cardiovascular health. We all badly need its anti-inflammatory protection.
How It Works
N-A-C modulates the expression of genes that affect the inflammatory process. It inhibits the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suppresses NF-kappa B and regulates the gene for COX-2, thereby preventing inflammation and pain. These chemicals are involved in hundreds of inflammatory conditions and diseases. In other words, N-A-C is anti-inflammatory and can either blunt or reverse chronic inflammatory conditions.
Cardiovascular System Benefits
N-A-C prevents LDL-cholesterol (“bad”
cholesterol) from being oxidized and causing inflammatory damage to the blood vessels. N-A-C lowers the levels of homocysteine, which prevents the buildup of plaque in the arteries. The lower the homocysteine, the less likelihood of arterial blockage.
