Get a daily detox with essential minerals

Daily Detoxification with Essential Minerals

For many years, our exposure to toxins has been a source of great concern. These toxins come from many sources: agriculture, industrial pollution, cleaning products, food additives. Various toxins have been linked to common cancers, including breast and prostate cancer, endocrine disorders, neurotoxicity, and the many chronic diseases that can result.

In 2004, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) attempted to quantify our toxic load. Among the 287 chemicals detected in the umbilical cord blood of 10 infants, it stated that 180 were known human carcinogens, 217 were toxic to the brain and nervous system, and 208 caused birth defects. Many chemicals persist long after being banned. For example, lead was detectable in 100% of participants. Our toxic load is so significant that it is reasonable to think that, in some cases, the body's natural detoxification mechanisms are also overloaded.

NAC for Detoxification

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is best known as a precursor (meaning it helps produce) to glutathione, the body's most powerful antioxidant. NAC's ability to increase glutathione levels probably explains its wide therapeutic applications. One of its therapeutic uses is to aid in detoxification. NAC donates sulfhydryl groups that can protect against toxins of all kinds, including pesticides, many medications (like Tylenol), microorganisms, and heavy metals like mercury, cadmium, and lead. By increasing glutathione levels, NAC assists the liver in its conjugation reaction, which in turn helps transform many circulating compounds into less toxic forms.

Heavy Metal Detoxification

In one study, NAC supplementation of 200-800 mg for three months in workers exposed to occupational lead concentrations reduced lead accumulation in red blood cells. This study also found it reduced oxidative stress and improved glutathione status in red blood cells. (Kasperczyk S, et al, 2013)

NAC vs. Glutathione

You might be wondering why not just take a glutathione supplement. Well, depending on its form, glutathione is poorly absorbed orally. Once ingested, it is largely converted into glutathione disulfide (GSSG), the oxidized form of glutathione; which is not ideal. While you can buy a more bioavailable liposomal form, you'll pay an outrageous price! In contrast, NAC is highly bioavailable. Studies confirm that when we take NAC, our cellular glutathione levels increase.

Other Benefits of NAC

Many of NAC's therapeutic benefits are attributed to its contribution to increasing glutathione levels, arguably the most powerful antioxidant. Glutathione's crucial role in overall health has been demonstrated in thousands of research documents. You'll find glutathione in every cell of the human body. Its most prized functions include its role as an antioxidant in detoxification and immune system regulation. Glutathione also helps recycle other antioxidants so they can have more impact.

If the body makes glutathione, why take NAC?

Unfortunately, many factors contribute to suboptimal glutathione levels. As we age, levels decrease. But, even for those of us who are young (or young at heart), chronic diseases, poor dietary choices, a toxic environment, and a stressful lifestyle deplete glutathione stores. So let's talk about the benefits of NAC!

NOW® NAC 600 mg with Selenium and Molybdenum

This NAC supplement can help with daily detoxification needs. Molybdenum is added as an essential mineral responsible for removing sulfur from the body. N-acetylcysteine is a natural source of sulfur. The small dose of molybdenum in this supplement can help keep sulfur levels under control. Selenium is an essential trace element proven for its anti-carcinogenic effects.