NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)
Cellular defense. Glutathione support. Detox and recovery.
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is a well-researched amino acid derivative best known for its role in supporting the body’s production of glutathione, one of the most important molecules involved in cellular defense, detoxification, and resilience. NAC is widely used to support antioxidant balance, respiratory health, and recovery during periods of elevated oxidative or environmental stress.
Primary Outcomes:
- Supports glutathione production
- Supports antioxidant and detox pathways
- Supports cellular and respiratory resilience
What Is NAC?
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is a stabilized form of the amino acid cysteine, which is considered the rate-limiting building block for glutathione synthesis. Because cysteine availability can be limited by diet, stress, and environmental exposure, NAC is commonly used to support the body’s ability to maintain healthy intracellular glutathione levels.
Unlike glutathione itself, NAC is well absorbed and readily utilized by cells as a precursor.
How NAC Works (Mechanism of Action)
1. Glutathione Precursor
NAC supplies cysteine, a critical substrate required for the synthesis of glutathione. By supporting glutathione availability, NAC indirectly supports antioxidant defense and cellular protection.
2. Antioxidant & Redox Balance
Through its role in glutathione production and its own sulfur-containing structure, NAC helps support cellular redox balance and protection against oxidative stress.
3. Detoxification Pathway Support
Glutathione-dependent pathways play a key role in phase II detoxification, where toxins and metabolic byproducts are prepared for elimination. NAC supports this process by helping maintain glutathione supply.
4. Respiratory & Mucolytic Support
NAC has a long history of use in supporting respiratory health due to its ability to interact with mucus viscosity and oxidative stress pathways in lung tissue.
Clinically Studied Dosage Ranges
NAC has been evaluated extensively in human clinical research across a variety of applications.
Commonly Studied Human Ranges
- NAC: ~600–1,800 mg per day
Studied dosages vary depending on duration, health context, and route of administration.
Benefits of NAC Support
Supports Glutathione Production
NAC is one of the most effective and widely studied precursors for glutathione, supporting the body’s master antioxidant system.
Supports Antioxidant Defense
By supporting glutathione-dependent pathways, NAC helps protect cells from oxidative stress associated with metabolism, exercise, and environmental exposure.
Supports Detoxification & Liver Health
NAC supports phase II detoxification processes that help the body neutralize and eliminate unwanted compounds.
Supports Respiratory Health
NAC has been studied for its role in supporting normal mucus clearance and respiratory resilience.
Supports Recovery & Cellular Resilience
By supporting antioxidant balance, NAC may help support recovery during periods of increased physiological demand.
Safety Profile
NAC is generally well tolerated in human studies when used within commonly studied ranges.
Potential side effects (typically mild and dose-dependent) may include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Nausea
- Headache
Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Managing a medical condition
- Taking prescription medications
Why Synchronicity Health’s NAC Is Different
Clinically Informed Formulation
Our NAC is selected and formulated based on extensive human research, with a focus on consistency, bioavailability, and real-world tolerability.
Purity & Quality Standards
- High-purity NAC
- Third-party tested
- No unnecessary fillers or proprietary blends
Designed as Part of a Detox & Resilience System
NAC is formulated to work synergistically with glutathione-supporting and recovery-focused nutrients as part of a holistic approach to cellular health.
Products Containing NAC
FAQ
What does NAC do in the body?
NAC provides cysteine, which supports the body’s ability to produce glutathione. Through this role, NAC supports antioxidant defense, detoxification pathways, and cellular resilience.
Is NAC the same as glutathione?
No. NAC is a precursor that helps the body produce glutathione. Many people use NAC because it is well absorbed and supports endogenous glutathione production.
Is NAC good for detox?
NAC supports detoxification indirectly by maintaining glutathione levels, which are essential for phase II liver detox pathways.
Is NAC safe for daily use?
Human research suggests NAC is generally well tolerated when used consistently within studied ranges. Individual needs and tolerance vary.
Can NAC be stacked with other supplements?
Yes. NAC is commonly paired with glutathione, antioxidants, mitochondrial support nutrients, and recovery-focused formulations.
What is the best time of day to take NAC?
NAC is commonly taken earlier in the day, often on an empty stomach, to support glutathione production and detoxification pathways. Some people prefer morning use to align with daily metabolic and liver activity, while others prioritize consistency over timing. Individual response can vary, and NAC is generally used as part of a regular routine rather than for immediate effects.
Can NAC help support liver health?
NAC is widely studied for its role in supporting liver health due to its ability to replenish glutathione, which is essential for phase II detoxification pathways. By helping maintain adequate glutathione levels, NAC supports the liver’s natural processes for neutralizing and eliminating metabolic byproducts and environmental compounds.
What is the difference between NAC and cysteine?
Cysteine is an amino acid, while N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a more stable and bioavailable form. NAC is commonly used in supplements because it is better absorbed and more effectively utilized by the body to support glutathione production compared to cysteine alone.