November 06, 2023

Benefits of NAC for Endometriosis

What is NAC?

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is derived from the essential amino acid L-cysteine. The primary function of NAC is its antioxidant power, capable of boosting the concentration of glutathione production in our bodies. Glutathione is crucial antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage, support the immune system, detoxify our bodies from harmful substances, balance hormones, and support respiratory health.

NAC and Endometriosis

NAC can offer support for endometriosis symptoms through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power. Endometriosis is a chronic, gynaecological condition that involves the growth of tissue similar to the lining of the uterus outside the uterus, leading to inflammation and pain.

Common symptoms of endometriosis can include persistent lower abdominal pain, heavy menstruation cycles, pain during sexual activities, constipation, bloody stools, and challenges with getting pregnant.

Side effects of endometriosis treatments and surgery

The exact cause of endometriosis is still unclear and although there is no cure, treatment options like hormone therapy medications (combined pill, contraceptive patch, IUS, contraceptive implant) and GnRH analogues, along with surgery to remove endometriosis tissue, aim to manage symptoms.

However, long-term use can lead to side effects such as weight gain, irregular bleeding, and decreased bone density, and even increased risk of developing breast cancer. While surgery offers relief, the recurrence rate goes as high at 67% and risks like infection and scarring are concerns.

Benefits of taking NAC for endometriosis

Alleviates pelvic pain and inflammation

NAC's anti-inflammatory effects may help alleviate chronic pelvic pain and discomfort. A study on 120 women diagnosed with endometriosis that were not taking any medical treatments, were given an oral dose of 1800mg of NAC, three days a week for three months. The patients reported significant reductions in endometriosis-related pain symptoms (dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain) and reduced size of endometriomas. Another study on women diagnosed with ovarian endometriosis found that more cysts decreased in size and fewer increased during NAC supplementation.

Therefore, research studies support the use of NAC for decreasing chronic pelvic pain and shrinking ovarian endometriomas (cystic lesions).

May support fertility

Studies show NAC can successfully reduce endometriomas in the ovaries and neutralise harmful free radicals to reduce cellular damage and improve the reproductive environment, enhancing the chances of conception. Furthermore, a cohort study found that NAC supplementation has the advantage of fertility protection in the absence of undesired side effects.

Hormone Balance

Higher estrogen levels are common in women with endometriosis. When estrogen levels are too high, this can cause hormonal imbalance, leading to heightened endometriosis symptoms, including more pain and inflammation. These elevated levels lead to irregular periods and fertility problems. A study on 100 patients found that NAC was able to balance hormones such as testosterone.

However, most research between NAC and hormone balance has been conducted on women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Further investigation is needed to directly link NAC to elevated estrogen levels in women with endometriosis.

Conclusion: How effective is NAC for endometriosis?

The use of NAC to treat endometriosis symptoms caused by inflammation and cellular damage has proven to be significantly valuable. However, further investigation is needed to understand it’s role in balancing estrogen and regulating menstrual cycles as current research tends to focus on women with PCOS.

Best NAC supplement for endometriosis:

We highly recommend Viridian High Potency NAC Capsules as the best NAC supplement for individuals dealing with endometriosis and fertility concerns. With exceptional potency at 600mg per capsule, these supplements provide optimal support. Thes vegan and vegetarian-friendly capsules contain 100% active ingredients with no binders or fillers. This ensures you're getting pure, high-quality NAC to address your specific needs.

Directions for use: Take two daily with a meal.

How much NAC should I take for endometriosis?

We recommend taking at least 600mg-1200mg of NAC per day to ease symptoms of endometriosis.

Can I combine NAC with Coq10?

Yes, both NAC and CoQ10 are powerful antioxidants that can work synergistically to reduce endometriosis pain caused by inflammation, and also improve changes of conception, egg quality, and pregnancy outcomes.