|
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND N-ACETYL CYSTEINE (NAC) N-ACETYL CYSTEINE N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is the form of Cysteine commonly used as a supplement. Cysteine is an Amino Acid, one of the building blocks of proteins. Cysteine is necessary for the production of Glutathione, one of the most important antioxidants and detoxifiers in the body. Absorption of oral Glutathione supplements can be unpredictable and Glutathione is relatively expensive. One of the main reasons to use NAC as a supplement is to raise the body's levels of Glutathione. NAC is less expensive than Glutathione and absorption is more predictable. See Glutathione for greater detail. METHIONINE Methionine, another amino acid, can be converted into Cysteine. Shortage of either Methionine or Cysteine may result in a shortage of Glutathione. Methionine may be taken either as the amino acid or as SAM-e, (S-Adenosyl Methionine). Conversion of Methionine to Cysteine requires Folate, B-6 and B-12. If you take Methionine or Sam-e supplements you should also take supplemental B vitamins L-GLUTAMINE L-Glutamine is the most common amino acid in the body. Under normal circumstances deficiency is unlikely. However, because Multiple Sclerosis places an additional strain on the Glutathione requirements, supplementation with L-Glutamine may be helpful. NitroPlex supplies 2.8 grams of L-Glutamine per dose. Additional supplementation should not be necessary. DOSAGE As always, published recommendations vary.
|