NAC is short for N-acetylcysteine, a supplement form of cysteine which is a semi-essential amino acid, necessary for making glutathione, an anti-oxidant that helps flight free radicals.
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and play important roles in the body.
Cysteine is found in most high-protein foods like cheese, eggs, chicken and legumes.
Historically NAC has been used in chronic respiratory illnesses as well as an antidote when the liver has become toxic from a drug overdose.
Furthermore studies also show NAC targets the area of willpower, gambling, cravings and addictions.
Researchers have found many benefits, but for now we will concentrate on its application for lung health and psychological conditions.
Respiratory Conditions
NAC can be very beneficial for people suffering from a variety of lung conditions, acting as an expectorant and antioxidant.
The replenishing action of glutathione reduces inflammation in the bronchial tubes and lungs and mucus becomes looser and easier to expel.
Studies show NAC has positive benefits for the following conditions –
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) 600mg of NAC twice a day showed significant improvements
- Bronchitis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Asthma
- Sinus and nasal congestion
In combination with NAC, thyme syrup is the ideal accompaniment.
Addictions and Psychiatric Disorders
NAC helps with a variety of issues including –
- OCD
- Cigarette and marijuana addiction
- Cocaine addiction – helps decrease withdrawal symptoms with less likelihood of relapse
- Bipolar disease and depression
- Trichotillomania, skin picking, and nail biting
- Schizophrenia
- Depression
Dosage – 1220 – 1500mg of NAC daily has shown to be beneficial for addictive behaviour.
1800mg of NAC daily for up to 12 weeks has shown to be an effective anti-catarrhal agent.
