NAC, or N-Acetyl L-Cysteine, is a slightly modified version of the naturally occurring amino acid cysteine, which participates in the body's formation of glutathione. Speaking of glutathione, it is one of the most powerful antioxidants and is especially recommended after intense workout sessions. And L-glycine? That's another amino acid that is also essential for the synthesis of the amino acid glutathione. Without L-glycine, NAC is practically useless.
The combination of NAC + glycine
NAC (N-acetyl L-cysteine) and glycine are involved in the synthesis of glutathione. Glutathione, in turn, is one of the body's most powerful antioxidants. Athletes have a significantly higher need for antioxidants than normally active people. The following benefits may result from the combination of NAC + glycine, especially during training loads that challenge endurance performance:
- Increases endurance performance: NAC may improve endurance performance by increasing oxygen flow and energy production in muscles. It can also reduce muscle fatigue, which can lead to longer, more intense workouts.
- Accelerates recovery: NAC may support muscle and tissue recovery after exercise by reducing oxidative stress. Thus, supports muscle growth: NAC can support muscle growth by accelerating recovery. This means more muscle mass in the same amount of time than without NAC supplementation.
- Reduces oxidative stress: athletes often expose their bodies to high levels of oxidative stress, which can cause damage to cells and tissues. NAC can help reduce this stress and protect the body from damage.
- Supports the immune system: Intense physical activity can compromise the immune system and make athletes more susceptible to infections. NAC can strengthen the immune system.
- Protects the lungs: athletes, especially endurance athletes, put their lungs under a lot of stress, which can lead to inflammation and damage. NAC can help protect the lungs and reduce inflammation.
The effect of NAC Pro
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is the precursor to the body's main antioxidant, glutathione, which is formed when NAC is combined with glycine. Supplemental intake of NAC is an effective way to increase glutathione levels in our bodies. A meta-analysis of 28 clinical trials found that NAC supplementation significantly reduced biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation.
Depending on diet, genetic predisposition, and training load, some athletes may have a subclinical glutathione deficiency that predisposes them to decreased athletic performance, slower recovery, and increased risk of infectious disease. NAC supplementation has been shown to restore normal glutathione levels in these individuals and significantly improve athletic performance.
A meta-analysis of healthy adults, including athletes and individuals who do not exercise regularly, has shown that NAC supplementation improves physical performance, antioxidant capacity, and glutathione levels. In middle-aged and older adults, NAC reduced the likelihood of respiratory infection by 43% over a six-month period, as well as the severity of infections not avoided.
FAQ NAC Pro
How is NAC + Glycine taken?
Daily 1 to 3 capsules, depending on the intensity and type of training. The higher and longer the endurance load, the higher the dosage should be. Good times to take it are in the morning and / or evening with time distance from training.