N-Acetyl-L-Cysteïne (NAC) kopen? Let op deze kenmerken

Buying N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine ​​(NAC)? Look for these features

Geschreven door: Ebrina van der Bijl

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Leesduur: 6 min

Are you planning to buy N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine ​​(NAC)? This supplement is often used for its role in the production of glutathione, an important antioxidant.

But not every NAC product is the same, and quality can vary. Want to be sure you're choosing the best? In this article, I'll share helpful tips for buying NAC, so you know exactly what to look for.

NAC is safe at doses up to 1200 mg per day. This form – N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​– is easily absorbed and stable, allowing the body to utilize it effectively.

NAC loosens mucus, increases glutathione production and supports liver detoxification thanks to its powerful antioxidant action.

Recommended dosage: 600–1200 mg per day, available in capsules, powder, or effervescent tablets. Start with a low dose and consult a doctor if in doubt.

Table of contents
Criteria for buying N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​(NAC) 1. Safe dosage of max 1200 mg/dosage 2. Pay attention to the form used 3. No unnecessary additives The best N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​What is N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​Benefits of N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​1. Helps dissolve mucus 2. The precursor of glutathione 3. Supports liver function 4. Helps keep homocysteine ​​healthy 5. Good for the immune system thanks to antioxidant effects Dosage of N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​Different forms of NAC supplements Side effects of N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​Points of attention with NAC supplements

Criteria for buying N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​(NAC)

When choosing the best N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​(NAC), there are several important factors to keep in mind.

1. Safe dosage of max 1200 mg/dose

First, dosage is important; a safe dosage is usually around 600 mg per day , although some people may use up to 1200 mg .

Tip : It is good to start with 600 mg and see how your body reacts.

2. Note the shape used

Also pay attention to the form of NAC. N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​is the most effective form . Another commonly used form is L-cysteine, which is also fine, but it's less well absorbed by your body.

Note : Avoid products containing a mixture of D-cysteine ​​and L-cysteine, as D-cysteine ​​is not effective.

3. No unnecessary additives

It's also important to pay attention to the ingredients list when purchasing NAC. Choose a product without artificial colors, preservatives, fillers, or flavors.

Tip : A supplement with only NAC and possibly a vegetable capsule is often the best choice.

The best N-acetyl-L-cysteine

The best N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​meets a few important criteria: It contains only the active ingredient NAC without unnecessary additives such as artificial colors or flavors, fillers, or preservatives.

In addition, dosage is crucial, with 600 mg being the ideal amount per day, and the maximum dosage should not exceed 1200 mg.

Choose a product that uses the correct form, namely N-acetyl-L-cysteine, which is absorbed best and most efficiently.

What is N-acetyl-L-cysteine

NAC is a derivative of the amino acid cysteine, which is important because it helps produce glutathione , one of the most powerful antioxidants in your body.

Cysteine ​​occurs naturally in many protein-rich foods like chicken, eggs, and legumes, but NAC itself doesn't occur naturally. It's synthesized in a laboratory to make it easier to take as a supplement.

In short : Taking NAC allows your body to produce more glutathione, which helps protect your cells from free radical damage. It therefore plays an important role in supporting overall health.

Benefits of N-acetyl-L-cysteine

Now that you know what NAC is and how it works, it's time to explore what it can do for your body. Here are the key benefits studied so far:

1. Helps dissolve mucus*

NAC is not only used as a supplement, but doctors also sometimes prescribe it as a medication for respiratory problems, such as stubborn mucus. It can help loosen sticky mucus, making it easier to cough up.

Mucus contains proteins connected by disulfide bridges. NAC helps break these bonds, making the mucus thinner and less viscous. (1) (2) (3)

2. THE precursor of glutathione

One of the most important benefits of NAC supplementation is the production of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant. N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​provides the building block (cysteine) your body needs to produce glutathione. (3) (4)

This is especially helpful when your body needs extra protection against harmful substances. NAC can thus contribute to your natural defense mechanisms.

3. Supports liver function

The liver is responsible for detoxifying our bodies. Glutathione, the liver's most important antioxidant, plays a major role in this process.

There, glutathione helps protect liver cells from damage and NAC supports this process by helping to produce glutathione.

There are also indications that NAC has a positive effect on liver values ​​such as albumin and bilirubin, although researchers emphasize that more large-scale research is needed to better understand the exact effect on liver function. (5)

4. Helps keep homocysteine ​​healthy

Homocysteine ​​is a substance naturally released in your body during the conversion of methionine to cysteine. If this substance accumulates too much, it can be detrimental, so the body breaks down or converts homocysteine.

NAC provides cysteine, thus indirectly participating in this system. There are indications that this can have positive effects, but the precise magnitude of this effect needs further investigation. (6)

5. Good for the immune system thanks to antioxidant effects

N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine ​​is known for its antioxidant properties. It helps neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells.

By limiting that damage, NAC could contribute to less oxidative stress. And because the immune system sometimes benefits from less cell damage, NAC is often cited as a possible support for a healthy immune system. (7)

Dosage of N-acetyl-L-cysteine

The correct dosage of NAC depends on your goal and personal situation. However, there are some general guidelines:

  • The most commonly used dosage for adults is 600 to 1200 mg NAC per day , often divided into one or two doses.
  • The maximum safe daily amount according to the RIVM and Lareb is 1200 mg per day for adults (8)
  • Higher doses up to 2400 mg per day are sometimes used therapeutically under medical supervision, but may increase the risk of side effects
  • The maximum dosage is lower and depends on age and weight. For children aged 2 to 7 years, 400 mg per day (in two 200 mg doses) is recommended.

Different forms of NAC supplements

NAC is available in different forms, so you can choose what suits you best:

  • Capsule or tablet - The most commonly used form is a capsule or tablet, which is easy to take
  • Powder - There is also powder, which can be useful if you want to adjust the dosage precisely or have difficulty swallowing
  • Drinks or effervescent tablets - And in some cases there are also effervescent tablets or drinks, mainly intended for medical use such as for respiratory complaints

Side effects of N-acetyl-L-cysteine

Although NAC is generally well tolerated, high doses can sometimes cause a number of side effects:

  • Gastrointestinal complaints
  • Skin reactions
  • Allergies (rarely)

So it's best to start low and, if in doubt, always consult a doctor or therapist.

TIP : For better amino acid absorption, it's best to take NAC on an empty stomach or well before/between meals. If you experience nausea, you can take the supplement with some juice or fruit.

Points of attention with NAC supplements

I would also like to give you the following points of interest:

  • It is not recommended to use NAC during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless advised by a doctor.
  • Use in children under two years of age is also not recommended
  • Stick to the recommended daily amount
  • Consult a doctor if you are taking medication or if you are ill.
Ebrina van der Bijl - Natural Performance

Ebrina van der Bijl

Ebrina is a nutritionist with a deep commitment to healthy eating and a sustainable lifestyle, based in beautiful Portugal. Her passion for natural and organic products is at the heart of her work. With a background in Nutrition & Dietetics and experience in product development and writing, she translates complex scientific information into practical advice for a balanced lifestyle.

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Sources used

  1. Rogliani, P., Manzetti, G. M., Gholamalishahi, S., Cazzola, M., & Calzetta, L. (2024b). Impact of N-Acetylcysteine ​​on Mucus Hypersecretion in the Airways: A Systematic Review. International Journal Of COPD, Volume 19, 2347–2360. https://doi.org/10.2147/copd.s474512
  2. Tang, W., Zhu, D., Wu, F., Xu, J., Yang, J., Deng, Z., Chen, X., Papi, A., & Qu, J. (2023). Intravenous N-acetylcysteine ​​in respiratory disease with abnormal mucus secretion. PubMed, 27(11), 5119–5127. https://doi.org/10.26355/eurrev_202306_32628
  3. Tenório, MCDS, Graciliano, NG, Moura, FA, De Oliveira, ACM, & Goulart, MOF (2021). N-Acetylcysteine ​​(NAC): Impacts on Human Health. Antioxidants, 10(6), 967. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10060967
  4. Atkuri, K. R., Mantovani, J. J., Herzenberg, L. A., & Herzenberg, L. A. (2007). N-Acetylcysteine—a safe antidote for cysteine/glutathione deficiency. Current Opinion in Pharmacology, 7(4), 355–359. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coph.2007.04.005
  5. Nikbaf-Shandiz, M., Adeli, S., Faghfouri, A. H., Khademi, F., Jamilian, P., Zarezadeh, M., & Ebrahimi-Mamaghani, M. (2023). The efficacy of N-acetylcysteine ​​in improving liver function: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials. PharmaNutrition, 24, 100343. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phanu.2023.100343
  6. Wiklund, O., Fager, G., Andersson, A., Lundstam, U., Masson, P., & Hultberg, B. (1996). N-acetylcysteine ​​treatment lowers plasma homocysteine ​​but not serum lipoprotein(a) levels. Atherosclerosis, 119(1), 99–106. https://doi.org/10.1016/0021-9150(95)05635-1
  7. Faghfouri, A.H., Zarezadeh, M., Tavakoli-Rouzbehani, O.M., Radkhah, N., Faghfuri, E., Kord-Varkaneh, H., Tan, S.C., & Ostadrahimi, A. (2020). The effects of N-acetylcysteine ​​on inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials. European Journal Of Pharmacology, 884, 173368. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173368
  8. RIVM advises consumers to check the amount of N-acetylcysteine ​​in food supplements. (n.d.) RIVM. https://www.rivm.nl/nieuws/rivm-adviseert-consumenten-om-hoeveelheid-stof-n-acetylcysteine-in-voedingssupplementen-te-controleren
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