NAC, strong lung protection during winter

26/09/2017
nac

 

Acetylcysteine or otherwise known as N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is produced by amino acid l-cysteine. It is a substance that exists in a variety of nutritional supplements regarding lung health and nasal decongestion sprays, due to its actions.

What is NAC

   N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is one of the most important forms of L-cysteine. It is a precursor molecule of glutathione, one of the most powerful antioxidant molecules. Cysteine is available in foods such as oats, corn, cheese, yoghurt, white meat and eggs, but it does not exist in the form of NAC.

Actions

   Traditionally, it is used to treat respiratory problems as mucolytic, in intravenous injections as an antidote to overdose of paracetamol, while in inhaled sprays to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Antioxidant action

   Body can synthesize cysteine from methionine, a necessary amino acid or from the metabolism of NAC. Cysteine is further metabolized to glutathione production which is one of the most important antioxidant mechanisms of cells. In particular, glutathione protects cells and DNA from oxidative damages caused by free radicals every day. For this reason, NAC is believed to have cardioprotective effects.

Mucolytic properties

   N-acetylcysteine has been found to have strong mucolytic properties. It helps reduce the symptoms of chronic bronchitis, such as cough and mucus. It is used to prevent and reduce the exacerbation and worsening of the symptoms of bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Hepato-protective actions

   Hepato-protective properties of NAC are due to the increased ability of hepatic cells to metabolize toxic derivatives of drugs. It is used as an antidote in cases of paracetamol ovedosing. NAC has similar hepatoprotective properties also in alcoholic individuals.

It is recommended for people suffering from:

  • chronic obstructive pulmonary syndrome or respiratory distress syndrome
  • bronchitis
  • flu or cold with productive or dry cough
  • liver disease
  • cardiovascular disease
  • diabetes type 2

Dosage

   Usual dosage is 600mg 1 to 3 times a day. It is recommended to consume 6-8 glasses of water in order to avoid the formation of kidney stones.

Side effects and interactions

   Adverse effects have been reported like vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, discomfort in gastro-intestinal tract and peptic ulcer exacerbation. It is not advisable to be taken from children, pregnant adn breast feeding women.

   In Vita4you you can find nutritional supplements with NAC.

Iro Gounitsioti

Msc, Bsc Clinical Dietitian - Nutritionist specialized in obesity, diabetes management, athletic nutrition as well as in nutritional supplements.

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Disclaimer

The content of this blogspot is not and can not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All information is provided to readers solely for informational purposes. There is no intention to substitute this content for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, prognosis or treatment.

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