N-Acetyl Cysteine (also known as NAC) has become more and more talked about over the last years, with its growing popularity many false assumptions were made. Let’s clear through the confusion and go over five popular myths about this supplement – what they are, and what the science actually says.
Myth 1: The NAC Panacea for Respiratory Infections
The real deal: While NAC does appear to thin mucus and possibly make respiratory symptoms less severe, NAC is not a treatment or cure for colds, flu or other infections. It has not been proven to kill viruses or bacteria, but according to research it might complement respiratory health and reduce symptom duration. NAC is more like supportive care and not something that should be seen as an alternative to medical treatment for when you are truly sick.
Myth 2: The Greater the NAC, the Better
The Reality: Overdosing is not going to result in a commensurate increase in benefit, and could actually cause harm. Dosages in studies usually range from 600-1800mg per day, and exceeding that doesn’t make its effects any stronger. Your body can only handle so much at a time and beyond that, NAC is excreted or simply causes GI upset.
Myth 3: NAC Works Immediately
The reality: NAC is not a magic bullet. Some people notice respiratory benefits, like help with congestion within hours but the true benefit in terms of supporting glutathione production and antioxidant defences occurs over time via consistent use. The majority of research studies report on the effects of NAC after weeks or months, not days. It is all about patience and gradual change instead of assuming immediate changes will take place. For Nac Supplement, consider vitortho.co.uk/supplements/categories/a-z-all-supplements/nac-n-acetyl-cysteine/
Myth 4: NAC Is For Lung Health Only
Fact: NAC is famous for helping the respiratory system but it actually does much more than that. NAC acts as a precursor to glutathione and supports liver detoxification, antioxidants protection in tissues throughout the body, and certain areas of mental health and athletic recovery. Therefore limiting NAC to pulmonary health only is very short sighted.
Myth 5: All NAC Supplements Are The Same
The Truth: NAC quality is all over the map. Manufacturing standards, purity, additional ingredients and the structure of a supplement (slow release vs. quick) also play a significant role in its bioavailability to your body so that you experience benefits from it. Look for third-party testing when you take a reliable brand, as this shows that the label is telling the truth.
NAC is something of a wonder supplement for good reason, as the research shows. Knowing what NAC is not also gives context for how to successfully use it in your environment and helps manage expectations. You just have to use it right – remember, there are real benefits of NAC as part overall health strategy – no miracles here.
As always, take supplements based on the science not flashy statements but remember to inform your healthcare provider if you do decide to add NAC.
