NAC and Liver Health: What You Should Know
We know that the health of our liver is vital. As the primary organ that aids in detoxification, we literally cannot live without it. And with liver diseases on the rise, protecting the health of our liver has never been more important.1
Supplements to help the liver are abundant, but few have garnered as much attention as NAC, aka N-acetylcysteine. This powerful antioxidant has been growing in popularity among those looking to support detoxification, manage oxidative stress, and optimize liver function.
What does NAC do, and is it for you? Let’s take a closer look at what NAC is, the benefits of NAC, and which supplements overall are worth considering to help your liver thrive.
What is NAC and Its Benefits?
NAC is derived from the amino acid L-cysteine. It acts as a precursor to glutathione, one of the body’s most powerful and versatile antioxidants. Originally used as a means to treat acute liver failure, we’ve known for a long time that one of the main benefits of NAC is its role in supporting liver function.2
But now we know that the benefits of NAC go beyond that. NAC has been studied for a variety of uses, including:3
- Reducing oxidative stress (in chronic disease conditions)
- Aiding respiratory function (especially in COPD and bronchitis)
- Supporting mental health (notably in OCD and depression)
- Enhancing detoxification (by increasing glutathione levels)
How NAC Protects the Liver
The liver filters, processes, and detoxifies loads of compounds in the blood—toxins, drugs, hormones, and more. But this process also generates free radicals and harmful byproducts. If unmanaged, they can lead to inflammation, fibrosis, and liver damage.
Here’s how NAC supports the liver:
1. Boosts Glutathione Production
Glutathione is known as the “master antioxidant.” NAC helps increase glutathione production, which supports the neutralization of harmful free radicals and protects liver cells.4
2. Enhances Detoxification
By boosting glutathione levels, NAC enhances the liver’s ability to convert toxins into water-soluble compounds for excretion.3
3. Anti-Inflammatory Support
Chronic liver conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are increasing. NAC may help decrease inflammatory markers and potentially slow progression.5
4. Decreasing the Impact of COVID-19
Early research suggests NAC’s anti-inflammatory benefits might help reduce the severity of COVID-19.6 This is especially relevant as COVID-19 is known to increase inflammation in organs, including the liver.7
Why NAC May Work Better Than Glutathione
Why not just supplement directly with glutathione? The issue is bioavailability. Glutathione is unstable outside the body and often poorly absorbed. NAC, however, is both stable and effective in helping the body make its own glutathione.
While some glutathione supplements are effective, they tend to be expensive. NAC is well studied and may be a more accessible and cost-effective option.
Top Supplements for Liver Support
In addition to NAC, consider these other researched ingredients that support liver health:
- Milk Thistle (Silymarin): Helps reduce oxidative stress and protect liver cells.7
- Alpha-Lipoic Acid: May reduce inflammation and fat buildup in the liver.8
- Turmeric/Curcumin: Provides anti-inflammatory benefits, including in the liver.9
- Choline: Essential for fat metabolism in the liver. Low levels are linked to higher risk for fatty liver.10
- Dandelion Root: May help reduce liver damage in chronic liver conditions.11
- Quercetin: Known for its anti-inflammatory effects, including liver support.12
Body Kitchen’s Mega NAC offers 600mg of NAC and 600mg of quercetin per serving for targeted antioxidant support.
Final Thoughts
Your liver handles toxins, hormones, nutrients, and more every day. While a healthy lifestyle is foundational, certain supplements—like NAC—can offer added support when needed.
If your liver could use some extra help, Mega NAC by Body Kitchen is a practical and affordable choice, formulated to support glutathione production and reduce oxidative stress.
As always, consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement, especially if you're taking medications or managing chronic health conditions.