NAC, The Glutathione Precursor: New Mechanisms, Testing Status Plus How Much to Take and When

NAC is a popular Glutathione precursor, new research suggests it may also help decrease clotting cascades (thrombosis) in the body.

Episode Time Stamps

00:00 N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a glutathione precursor.

01:00 NAC is a cysteine precursor. Cysteine is a rate-limiting amino acid of the glutathione tripeptide. The tripeptide is comprised of glycine, glutamine, and cysteine.

01:35 Glutathione can neutralize free radicals/oxidative stress and increase phase 2 detoxificatoin. NAC can be taken supplementally to increase glutathione during an infection.

02:30 Glutathione can decrease platelet aggregation and clotting. NAC reduces D-dimer levels in people with active infection.

04:10 Clotting can occur in the post-infection window or after receiving other treatments. It can happen after a meal or after prolonged sitting (blood stagnation). NAC supplementation may reduce the risk of clotting with prolonged sitting.

05:04 Avoid taking antioxidants during the day when your metabolism is most active. Evening proves better at taking advantage of the benefits.

06:00 NAC Dosing: Studies show that between 800 and 1600 mg taken all at once is beneficial. Glycine is part of the glutathione tripeptide and may help with glutathione levels. Glycine and glutathione both help with sleep.

06:50 Save money by using powder supplements when dosing over 800 mg.

08:00 GGT levels over 30 IU is an indicator of glutathione turnover. You actively make glutathione as a defense against pollutants, heavy metals, and other insults. GGT transfers sulfur from dietary cysteine into your cells to make glutathione. Consider nutritional support of glutathione levels when there is churn/turnover.

09:50 Oral glutathione is sensitive to the caustic agents in your gut. S-Acetyl-L-Glutathione and Liposomal Glutathione increases absorption and prevent the glutathione from being oxidized. NAC is less expensive.