NAC

How You May Benefit:

Counteract the cellular damage of oxidative stress, a key in the fight against aging
Detoxify the body
Protect the liver from toxic compounds such as alcohol and acetaminophen
Fight free radicals
Fight free radicals, which is beneficial to post-exercise recovery
Strengthen connective tissue
Stimulate strong connective tissue and even reduce pain from joint inflammation

Overview

NAC (the stable form of the amino acid cysteine) is a powerhouse of a supplement with potent antioxidant activity. In addition to combating exercise-induced damage to muscle tissue, it helps detoxify the liver, build connective tissue, fight viral infections, and combat the effects of age. And these are only the highlights!

Usage

Amount: NAC is commonly found in 500-mg capsules with daily supplement levels ranging from 1 to 3 capsules daily.

Optimal levels are dependent on many variables, including amount of exercise and other specific situations when its ability to protect liver health may be important (like when you're going to drink a few alcoholic beverages—not that anyone is endorsing that).

Note: Some reports have indicated the upper limit for effective NAC supplementation is 2,000 mg daily. Amounts greater than this are not considered beneficial to use for extended periods.

Timing: NAC may be taken effectively with meals. There may be added benefits from taking NAC with other antioxidants, including Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

NAC is one of the most important antioxidants for an athlete—the benefits are numerous and the research rich. Its effect on muscle trauma caused by lifting weights or intense cardio training is exciting. A close second (and an occasional first) in importance would be its role in detoxifying the body and helping keep the liver in "like-new" condition. Its anti-aging benefits and ability to aid in joint health are great value add-ons.

Safety Information

Safety:
If you are pregnant or lactating, NAC is not recommended.

Anyone suffering from ulcers or similar conditions affecting the lining of the stomach may want to avoid NAC supplementation.

Toxicity:
No known toxicity, although the benefits for extended use may peak at 2,000 mg daily.

Bans and Restrictions:
None reported.

References

Horowitz, J.D., et al., "Combined Use of Nitroglycerin and N-acetylcysteine in the Management of Unstable Angina Pectoris," Circulation 77.4 (1988) : 787-94.

Kinscherf, R., et al., "Low Plasma Glutamine in Combination with High Glutamate Levels Indicate Risk for Loss of Body Cell Mass in Healthy Individuals: the Effect of N-Acetyle-Cysteine," J Mol Med 74.7 (1996) : 393-400.

Marchetti, G., et al., "Use of N-Acetylcysteine in the Management of Coronary Artery Diseases," Cardiologia 44.7 (1999) : 633-7.

Mold'eus, P., et al., "Lung Protection by a Thiol-Containing Antioxidant: N-Acetylcysteine," Respiration 50 suppl 1 (1986) : 31-42.

Rasmussen, J.B., Glennow C., "Reduction in Days of Illness After Long-Term Treatment with N-acetylcysteine Controlled-Release Tablets in Patients with Chronic Bronchitis," Eur Respir J 1.4 (1988) 351-5.

Sen, C.K., et al., "Oxidative Stress After Human Exercise: Effect of N-Acetylcysteine Supplementation," J Appl Physiol 76.6 (1994) : 2570-7.

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