NAC supplement: what it is,
how it works and why it is so popular
daily dosage
and liver support
in glutathione synthesis
N-acetylcysteine — better known as NAC — is a supplement that has gained significant popularity in recent years. Originally developed as a medication for paracetamol poisoning, NAC is now widely used as a liver-supporting supplement. But what makes NAC so special?
NAC is a stabilized form of the amino acid L-cysteine. Cysteine is the limiting factor in glutathione synthesis: if there is insufficient cysteine available, the liver cannot produce enough glutathione — regardless of how many of the other building blocks are present.
NAC carries an acetyl group that stabilizes the molecule and improves absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Once inside the cell, the acetyl group is removed, and cysteine is immediately available for glutathione synthesis.
NAC supports the liver in two ways simultaneously:
Provides cysteine for the production of new glutathione — immediately usable after alcohol consumption
The free thiol group (-SH) also neutralizes free radicals, independently of glutathione
| Study | Finding |
|---|---|
| Khoshbaten et al. (2010) | NAC significantly improved ALAT and ASAT in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease |
| Haber et al. (2003) | NAC reduced oxidative stress markers in alcoholic liver disease |
| Millea (2009) | NAC increased glutathione concentrations in liver and lung tissue |
| Mokhtari et al. (2017) | 1800 mg/day improved insulin resistance and liver values in NAFLD |
Some formulations combine NAC (for production) with a small amount of glutathione (for direct supplementation). Livera Shield employs this combined approach: 600 mg NAC + 250 mg glutathione + BroccoPhane® for Nrf2 activation.
The most commonly used dosage in clinical research is 600 mg NAC per day. NAC is generally well tolerated. At higher dosages, nausea or stomach complaints may occur — preferably take it with food.
600 mg NAC per day, scientifically supported
Livera Shield contains the clinically studied dosage of 600 mg NAC, supplemented with glutathione and BroccoPhane® for maximum liver support.
View Livera Shield →Livera Shield is a dietary supplement. This article does not replace medical advice. Consult a doctor for complaints or questions about your health.
