N-Acetyl Cysteine

by Lois Dickey, Vitamin Department Manager

NAC is a slightly modified version of the sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine. When taken internally, NAC replenishes intracellular levels of the natural antioxidant glutathione, helping to restore cells’ ability to fight damage from reactive oxygen species.*

NAC given intravenously or orally saves lives every year as a treatment for acute poisoning with acetaminophen-containing pain-relieving drugs. Overdoses with acetaminophen are the number one cause of acute liver failure in the body’s glutathione reserves, which creates widespread and irreversible liver damage. NAC quickly restores protective levels of glutathione, averting catastrophe.

Scientists all over the world are now beginning to understand just how vital glutathione metabolism really is and how many disease states involve glutathione deficiency.

NAC has broad-spectrum benefits against a number of diseases including the stomach infection Helicobacter Pylori. It improves insulin sensitivity in people with some of the most difficult-to-treat metabolic disorders. NAC protects tissue from the effects of exercise induced oxidative stress. It reduces the frequency and duration of attacks of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Solaray has an excellent NAC product (600mg) available at the Co-op.

Two New Products:

  • Iodine as Potassium Iodide (Solaray)
  • K2 MENAQUINONE (Solaray)