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N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is a precursor of the amino acid L-cysteine, which has potent antioxidant properties. It works by replenishing glutathione levels, in turn restoring the optimal functioning of the immune system and metabolic pathways [1],[2],[3].
NAC supplements have gained popularity, especially during and post-Covid-19 pandemic. This is because NAC supplements are linked to better support for respiratory health and the immune system. In fact, in some countries, NAC supplementation is used as a viable adjuvant treatment option for serious respiratory conditions such as cystic fibrosis [4],[5].
That said, there’s also no harm in using NAC supplements for general health maintenance. Let’s look at the best NAC brands you can add to your cart today!
Quick Summary
Best For High Dosage: DoubleWoods NAC
Great For Cost-Effectiveness: NOW Foods NAC
Best For Powder Formulation: Bulk Supplements NAC Powder
| Product Name | NAC Content (mg) | Price / Amount | Direction To Use |
| DoubleWoods NAC | 500 | ~ $30 / 210 capsules | Take 1-2 capsules per day on an empty stomach. |
| NOW Foods NAC | 600 | ~ $22 / 250 capsules | Take 1 capsule twice daily |
| Thorne NAC | 500 | ~ $28 / 90 capsules | Take 1 capsule two to three times daily |
| Doctor’s Best NAC Detox Regulators | 600 | ~ $19 / 180 capsules | Tale 1 capsules twice daily with food |
| Bulk Supplements NAC Powder | 600 | ~ $38 / 500 grams | Take about ¼ teaspoon (600mg) up to three times daily |
Best NAC Supplements
Double Woods NAC
NAC CONTENT (mg):
500
PRICE / AMOUNT:
~ $30 / 210 capsules
DIRECTION TO USE:
Take 1-2 capsules per day on an empty stomach. Do not exceed 4 capsules in one day.
Pros
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
Cons
- May cause stomach upset
Double Wood Supplements is a well-known company that produces high-quality, third-party-tested dietary products. Their NAC supplement is manufactured in the U.S.A. with strict adherence to good manufacturing practices (GMP).
It has an excellent 5 out of 5 stars rating, helping to support liver and lung health. Besides, this product has countless positive reviews such as “I’m so happy I found this product—I know it’s of great quality” and “excellent results, will strongly recommend it!”.
Furthermore, each bottle comes with enough servings to last over three months. The capsules also have vanilla flavoring to mask any pungent smells or unpleasant tastes.
NOW Foods NAC
NAC CONTENT (mg):
600
PRICE / AMOUNT:
~ $22 / 250 capsules
DIRECTION TO USE:
Take 1 capsule twice daily.
Pros
- GMP quality assured
- Has undergone micro-testing to ensure safety
- Kosher friendly
Cons
- Produced in a facility that processes allergens such as soy, milk, eggs or tree nut
This product is ranked #1 under NAC supplements and in the top 10 for antioxidants. Apart from NAC, this product also contains two essential trace minerals— selenium and molybdenum. These ingredients work synergistically to provide reliable free radical protection.
Moreover, the capsules are normal-sized, easy to swallow, and do not have any lingering aftertaste. Although this product can be stored at room temperature, you can also refrigerate it to slow down oxidative reactions that may appear as black spots.
Thorne NAC
NAC CONTENT (mg):
500
PRICE / AMOUNT:
~ $22 / 250 capsules
DIRECTION TO USE:
Take 1 capsule two to three times daily, or as recommended by your health-care practitioner.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Well-known company with 30 years of experience
- Manufactured in the USA
Cons
- Contains silicon dioxide
Thorne Supplements is one of the most trusted health solutions for many consumers worldwide. It’s the only supplement brand collaborating with Mayo Clinic to conduct research.
This best NAC Thorne supplement is made of pure ingredients to bring great enhancement to immune functions. Many consumers also praise the quick effects of this product, from helping get rid of cough to increasing their energy levels to get through the day.
Moreover, Thorne Supplements has also partnered with multiple Olympic Teams. This showcases the safety and effectiveness of their products.
Doctor’s Best NAC Detox Regulators
NAC CONTENT (mg):
600
PRICE / AMOUNT:
~ $19 / 18 capsules
DIRECTION TO USE:
Take 1 capsule twice daily with food, or as recommended by a nutritionally informed physician.
Pros
- GMP quality assured
- Non-GMO
- Made of vegetarian capsules
Cons
- Not certified gluten-free
This product is manufactured through science-based nutrition to support cellular health and liver functions. It has high levels of selenium and molybdenum to facilitate energy production and detoxification processes. The capsules contain natural vanilla flavoring, so you wouldn’t have to worry about unpleasant tastes.
Bulk Supplements NAC Powder
NAC CONTENT (mg):
600
PRICE / AMOUNT:
~ $38 / 500 grams
DIRECTION TO USE:
Take about ¼ teaspoon (600mg) up to three times daily, or as directed by a physician.
Pros
- Free of added sugar or additives
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Cons
- May have strong and overpowering sulfur smell
This NAC powder supplement is an excellent alternative for people who dislike capsule formulations. It can be mixed with any beverage of choice to improve its taste. This dietary supplement is third-party tested at multiple production stages to uphold high quality and safety standards. The packaging is also designed to lower carbon emissions and bring a more eco-friendly solution.
How To Choose NAC Supplements?
It’s essential to consider a few factors when choosing an NAC supplement that best suits your needs and lifestyle. Firstly, read the product label and ingredients list thoroughly. The recommended and effective NAC dose range is 600-1200 mg daily [6]. If this is your first time taking NAC supplements, start with a lower dose to get your body adjusted.
Secondly, research the brand’s reputation and manufacturing practices. Please choose the best NAC brands that are transparent and ethical with their processes. Keep an eye out on the customer reviews, too, as this provides insight into the quality of the product itself.
Finally, read the product’s recommended dosage instructions. Reflect if it’s something that you can incorporate into your supplementation routine. A good NAC supplement should be simple enough to stick to.
Bottomline: Best NAC Supplement Brands
NAC is a versatile supplement with a diverse set of health benefits. It’s suitable for anyone looking to add antioxidants to their daily diets and improve overall health. However, do note that dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet.
Any NAC supplement should work hand in hand with a healthy lifestyle to bring out the most benefits. Therefore, while you’re scrolling through multiple NAC supplements, make sure also to keep your diet and lifestyle in check!
FAQs
– Pregnant or breastfeeding women
– Children
– People on blood thinners or anticoagulants
– Asthmatic individuals
– People on medications to treat heart conditions or kidney diseases
Before starting on NAC products or any new supplements, please consult a healthcare provider to avoid unwanted health repercussions.
However, if you experience troublesome adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, cough, or diarrhea, please stop taking the supplement. Meet a general practitioner for a thorough examination and appropriateness to continue taking NAC supplements.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional. We have assembled this article through in-depth research based on the information available at the date of publishing. We may receive a small commission for purchases you make through our links, but this comes at NO extra cost to you. This commission allows us to continue doing what we love through Health Plugged, which is delivering evidence-based health information to our readers worldwide.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Calverley, P., Rogliani, P. & Papi, A. Safety of N-Acetylcysteine at High Doses in Chronic Respiratory Diseases: A Review. Drug Saf 44, 273–290 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40264-020-01026-y
- Millea, P. J. (2009). N-acetylcysteine: Multiple clinical applications. American Family Physician. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2009/0801/p265.html
- Schwalfenberg G. K. (2021). N-Acetylcysteine: A Review of Clinical Usefulness (an Old Drug with New Tricks). Journal of nutrition and metabolism, 2021, 9949453. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/9949453
- Tardiolo, G., Bramanti, P., & Mazzon, E. (2018). Overview on the Effects of N-Acetylcysteine in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 23(12), 3305. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules23123305
- Tenório, M. C. D. S., Graciliano, N. G., Moura, F. A., Oliveira, A. C. M., & Goulart, M. O. F. (2021). N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): Impacts on Human Health. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 10(6), 967. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10060967
