Our NAC Supplement Reviews
Our pick
Doublewood Supplments NAC
Get your liver and whole body health in check with Double Wood’s NAC supplement. Third-party tested, you can be sure you’re getting a high-quality product. It’s a powerful antioxidant that helps support liver health by boosting glutathione levels in the body. With a 3-month supply of 105 servings, each containing 1,000mg, you can trust this acetyl cysteine supplement to give you the support you need. Made in the USA, it’s gluten-free, vegan safe, and non-GMO.
NOW Supplements NAC
NOW sells high-quality NAC supplement that is kosher, non-GMO, soy-free, nut-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free, and is made by a GMP quality assured, family-owned company based in the USA. It’s stored and shipped in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations for quality and safety.
Life Extension N-Acetyl L-Cysteine
Life Extension’s NAC supplement is made with high-quality ingredients — definitely worth trying. It’s a potent form of N-acetyl-L-cysteine, with each capsule containing 600 mg of the nutrient. The ingredients are sourced carefully and the product is non-GMO and gluten-free. Plus, it’s made by a company with 40+ years of experience in creating effective, scientifically-backed formulas. Whether you’re looking to support whole body health or just want to live your healthiest life, this NAC supplement could be a great choice.
Thorne NAC
Thorne is a trusted brand in the supplement industry, recognized by over 100 professional teams and the only supplement manufacturer to work with the well-respected Mayo Clinic on wellness research. With a proud partnership with 12 U.S. Olympic Teams, Thorne is committed to providing high-quality and effective supplements to support a healthy and active lifestyle.
Toniiq NAC
Toniiq N Acetyl Cysteine is a highly purified form of NAC that offers some of the highest levels of free radical protection on the market, with a serving size of 1300mg. The product is third-party lab tested to ensure a minimum of 98% purity in every serving, and each batch is tested for quality and purity both during and after manufacturing. Toniiq products are manufactured in a GMP-certified and NSF-approved facility in the USA, and each batch is individually tested to ensure the correct standardized level of purity and active ingredients. Toniiq is dedicated to quality and sets a high standard for purity, making it a trustworthy and reliable NAC supplement.
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is a synthetic compound that is converted to the antioxidant glutathione in the body. NAC is commonly used as a dietary supplement for a variety of health benefits, including immune health, and has been the subject of numerous studies in recent years. In this article, we’ll examine NAC in detail, including its history, how it works in the body, its potential benefits, and the precautions you should take before using it.
What Is N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)?
NAC is a derivative of the naturally occurring amino acid cysteine, and is found in a variety of plants. It was first developed as a prescription drug in the 1960s to treat acetaminophen poisoning and has since been used for a variety of other health concerns. Today, NAC is widely used as a dietary supplement for its potential benefits in supporting immune health.
How NAC Supplements Work In The Body
NAC works by increasing the levels of glutathione in the body. Glutathione is an important antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage and oxidative stress. By increasing the levels of glutathione in the body, NAC helps to support the immune system and protect the body against a variety of health concerns.
Studies About The Benefits Of NAC Supplements
There have been numerous studies investigating the potential benefits of NAC supplementation. Overall, it’s thought to help in liver detoxification by increasing glutathione levels, supports respiratory health, and protects the kidneys. It is often used along with medications that can harm the liver, and prescribed by doctors for these purposes. And while NAC has several potential health benefits, it’s important to be cautious of exaggerated claims. Some of its benefits, especially for serious health conditions, are not well researched or verified. Regardless, some of the most notable studies on NAC include:
- A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that NAC supplementation reduced symptoms of chronic bronchitis and improved lung function.
- A study published in the journal Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity found that NAC supplementation had a positive effect on oxidative stress and inflammation in overweight individuals.
- A study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry found that NAC supplementation improved symptoms of depression and anxiety.
What To Look For In A NAC Supplement
When choosing a NAC supplement, it is important to look for a product that provides the desired dose at a low cost. NAC is always in the “free form,” so there is no need to pay extra for products that claim to contain the “free form” of NAC. It is also important to look for a product that is manufactured by a reputable company and is free of contaminants.
Brand: The regulation of supplements is not strict, so it’s crucial to choose a reputable brand. Look for a brand that has a good reputation, verifiable history, and clear labeling of ingredients. It’s also important to verify if the product contains common allergens.
Form: NAC supplements are available in either capsule or tablet form. Capsules are smooth and easy to swallow, but may contain lower doses compared to tablets. Tablets are cheaper to produce, but may be difficult to swallow and have a taste.
Additives: Supplements often contain additives for texture, taste, preservation, or odor control. It’s important to carefully examine the additives and how they may affect your health, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Cost: The cost of NAC supplements varies between 10-30 cents per pill, depending on concentration, brand, and source. Overall, NAC supplements are considered affordable.
How Much NAC Supplement To Take, And When
The dose of NAC used in clinical trials has ranged from about 600 mg to 3,000 mg per day, typically divided into two or three servings. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting NAC supplementation to determine the appropriate dose and timing for your individual needs.
Why Some Retailers Are No Longer Selling NAC
In 2020, the FDA made it clear that it considers NAC to be a drug and not a dietary supplement. As a result, some retailers have stopped selling NAC due to legal concerns. It is important to purchase NAC from a reputable retailer that follows all applicable regulations.
NAC And COVID-19
Regarding NAC supplements and COVID-19, while NAC has been used to help with respiratory conditions such as COPD and chronic bronchitis, there is currently limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness in treating COVID-19. It’s important to remember that there is no single cure or treatment for COVID-19, including dietary supplements. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new supplement, especially during a pandemic.
Safety and Side Effects Of NAC
NAC can cause headache and gastrointestinal side effects. It can also worsen asthma. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting NAC supplementation, particularly if you have a history of asthma or any other health conditions. Additionally, it is important to follow the recommended dose and not exceed the recommended amount without the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Feature image by danilo.alvesd on Unsplash
