How N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) Can Support Your Health
How This Antioxidant Powerhouse Helps Combat Oxidative Stress, Detox Environmental Toxins, and Support Overall Wellness
By Dave Blake, Clinical Nutritionist
As someone living with lupus nephritis (LN), I understand the challenges of managing a chronic condition that often feels unpredictable. When I first started exploring complementary treatments to support my kidneys and overall health, I discovered N-acetylcysteine (NAC)—a simple but powerful antioxidant that has since become a daily part of my wellness routine.
Whether you’re managing an autoimmune condition, dealing with oxidative stress, or just looking to optimise your health, NAC could be the missing piece in your nutrition puzzle. Let me share why this humble supplement has earned a spot in my toolbox and how it might help you, too.
What Is NAC?
N-acetylcysteine, or NAC, is a derivative of the amino acid cysteine. It works by replenishing levels of glutathione, one of the most powerful antioxidants in the body.
Think of glutathione as your cellular “cleanup crew,” neutralising free radicals and reducing oxidative stress—the process that causes inflammation and damage to cells.
In chronic conditions like lupus nephritis, oxidative stress plays a significant role in disease progression. By boosting glutathione, NAC helps to calm inflammation and protect vital organs like the kidneys. But you don’t need to have a chronic illness to benefit—oxidative stress affects everyone to some degree, from athletes recovering after workouts to people managing everyday stress.
What Does the Science Say?
Research supports NAC’s role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. For example:
• A clinical trial in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) showed that NAC reduced disease activity by targeting specific pathways linked to inflammation and immune dysfunction (Fu et al., 2016).
• In animal studies, NAC has been shown to protect organs like the liver, kidneys, and brain from oxidative damage caused by glyphosate, a widely used herbicide found in food residues (Turkmen et al., 2019).
• Systematic reviews highlight NAC’s ability to lower inflammatory markers and improve metabolic health, especially in conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes (Dludla et al., 2019).
The recommended doses in these studies ranged from 600 mg to 2,400 mg daily, depending on the condition. I personally take 1–2 g daily to support my kidneys, but always consult your healthcare provider to find the right dose for you.
Side note: On Glyphosate (Roundup)
Turkmen et al. (2019) studied the effects of NAC in mitigating oxidative stress caused by glyphosate-based herbicides in rats. Glyphosate, a common chemical used in agriculture, has been linked to increased oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. The most widely known trade name for glyphosate is Roundup, originally produced by Monsanto. However, glyphosate is also sold under various other trade names and formulations by different manufacturers, such as RazorPro, Rodeo, Touchdown, and Glyphomax. The specific trade name depends on the brand and intended use (e.g., agricultural, residential, or aquatic weed control).
In the study, rats exposed to glyphosate showed elevated levels of oxidative stress markers like malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced levels of protective glutathione. NAC supplementation not only restored glutathione but also reduced cellular damage in key organs, including the liver, kidneys, and brain. This research underscores NAC’s potential as a protective agent against environmental toxins like glyphosate, which can linger in non-organic produce and processed foods (Turkmen et al., 2019).
For those of us mindful about food choices, reducing glyphosate exposure is a step toward better health. Pairing this with a supplement like NAC can further support your body’s ability to combat oxidative stress.
Why NAC Might Be Right for You
Here are just a few reasons NAC might be worth considering:
1. Supports Detoxification: NAC helps your liver process toxins, making it an ally for anyone exposed to environmental pollutants like glyphosate.
2. Reduces Inflammation: By calming oxidative stress, NAC can help manage inflammation linked to chronic illnesses or even everyday wear and tear.
3. Boosts Immunity: As a precursor to glutathione, NAC strengthens your immune system at the cellular level.
4. Affordable and Accessible: Unlike many treatments, NAC is relatively inexpensive and widely available.
How to Get Started with NAC
If you’re curious about NAC, start by discussing it with your healthcare provider or nutritionist (that’s me, if you’re looking for guidance!). For general wellness, many people start with 600–1,200 mg daily, split into two doses. If you’re dealing with a specific condition, you may need more—up to 2,400 mg daily, as supported by research.
I personally use NOW Brand N-Acetyl-Cysteine 1000 mg, 120 Tablets [ps. full disclosure this is a link to purchase from Amazon, which I also do, as it’s fast, reliable and a good price. I am not sponsored by NOW but I do receive up to 5% from Amazon if you purchase using the link. I choose NOW Foods NAC tablets because they strike the right balance between purity and practicality. While the other ingredients are annoying (Microcrystalline Cellulose, Hydroxypropyl Cellulose, and Croscarmellose Sodium: These are commonly used as binders, fillers, and disintegrants to ensure the tablet holds its shape and dissolves effectively in the digestive system. Vegetarian Coating: This provides a smooth finish and makes the tablets easier to swallow. Stearic Acid and Silicon Dioxide: These are natural anti-caking agents that prevent clumping during manufacturing and storage. Sunflower Lecithin, Sunflower Oil, and Triethyl Citrate: These are emulsifiers or stabilisers, helping the tablet maintain consistency), they are there for structure and stability, they are safe, non-allergenic, and free from unnecessary additives. This is a clean and convenient option compared to the powder, which I found impossible to stick with due to its bitter taste].
A Personal Note
I’ve seen firsthand how NAC can make a difference. When my lupus nephritis was at its worst, I felt powerless over what was happening in my body. Incorporating NAC into my routine, alongside a nutrient-dense diet and lifestyle changes, has helped me reclaim some of that power.
If you’re looking for natural ways to support your health, NAC is a great place to start. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or simply want to feel your best, this antioxidant powerhouse might just surprise you.
Let’s Talk
Have questions about NAC or how it could fit into your routine? Comment below or book a consultation through my site. Let’s explore how this simple supplement can transform your health.
References
Dludla, P. V., Mazibuko-Mbeje, S. E., Nyambuya, T. M., Mxinwa, V., Tiano, L., Marcheggiani, F., Cirilli, I., Louw, J., & Nkambule, B. B. (2019). The beneficial effects of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) against obesity associated complications: A systematic review of pre-clinical studies. Pharmacological Research, 146, 104332. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104332
Fu, S., Zhao, Z., Ren, J., Dai, C., & Gaskin, F. (2016). AI-29 Metabolome checkpoints of MTOR activation and clinical responsiveness in SLE. Lupus Science & Medicine, 3, 14–15. https://doi.org/10.1136/lupus-2016-000179.29
Turkmen, R., Birdane, Y., Demirel, H., Yavuz, H., Kabu, M., & Ince, S. (2019). Antioxidant and cytoprotective effects of N-acetylcysteine against subchronic oral glyphosate-based herbicide-induced oxidative stress in rats. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 26, 11427–11437. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-019-04585-5