Get the NAC with N-acetylcysteine

    By Tanya Kenevich

    Nobody likes the dreaded sniffles, and feelings of stuffiness can make anyone rush to the remedies
    cabinet for instant relief.  But instead of popping the ordinary decongestant, there's another, natural
    option that offers more benefits than just a de-stuffed schnoz.
    N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a powerful antioxidant and amino acid that is used as a natural
    decongestant and dietary supplement.  It is derived from cysteine, which can be found in everyday
    foods like meat or eggs.  N-acetylcysteine, is also written as acetylcysteine and N-acetyl-L-cysteine,
    but is easiest when called NAC.

    Nac was modified from cysteine for its effect on excess mucous, which is its primary use.  N-
    acetylcysteine is also the form of cysteine most easily absorbed by the body.  When NAC is taken,
    mucus strands are broken up to aid in better sinus drainage.

    Many take a NAC oral supplement for allergies, bronchitis, sinusitis and the common cold.  NAC is
    generally taken twice to three times daily (600mg each dosage).

    Besides NAC's decongestant power, there have been studies that show other benefits.  In an open,
    controlled study of 169 patients from different centers with moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive
    pulmonary disease (COPD), some subjects were picked to receive traditional treatment plus 600mg of
    NAC once a day for the six month study.

    Exacerbations of COPD were reduced 41 percent in the NAC-treated group, when compared with the
    traditional treatment only group.  Sick days taken were also affected; the NAC group took less sick
    days than the traditional therapy-only subjects.

    NAC is also being used as an important antioxidant invivo and in vitro.  NAC supplementation could
    significantly stimulate the production of T4 white blood cells.  This adds to a boosting of the immune
    system,, that could prove effective in combating against influenza.  Those who are elderly or who
    suffer from chronic illness may want to consider NAC supplementation.  W

    Even with the health benefits of NAC, there are some health cautions with taking the dietary
    supplement.  Although there are no toxic side effects reported to date, there have been some adverse
    reactions reported with oral NAC supplementation.  These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
    headache (especially when used with nitrates) and rashes, but these are not common.  NAC continues
    to be used as a decongestant dietary supplement, a treatment for chronic mucus related illnesses and
    more.

    This article is reprinted with permission from Vitamin Retailer magazine and is provided for educational
    purposes only by Cay Health Foods.  No part of this article is intended as medical advice.  Always
    consult your health care provider for any medical problems.
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