NAC - what it is and how can be helpful for both male and female fertility issues

A nutritional supplement that you may have not heard much about for fertility is NAC, as awareness of it has only increased in the last couple of years, due to emerging research on its benefits for fertility.  

NAC stands for N-Acetylcysteine and is a supplement form of the amino acid cysteine, a conditionally essential amino acid found in protein foods such as pork, beef, chicken, fish, lentils, eggs and cheese.

NAC is beneficial for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is a precursor to glutathione, which is the body’s primary antioxidant and is important for both phase 1 and 2 detoxification pathways in our liver. The body makes glutathione from the three amino acids: glycine, cysteine, and glutamine, and a deficiency in any of these impairs glutathione production.  

NAC is a supplement that is unnecessary for everyone, but there are times when additional support is required, especially if someone has a chronic inflammatory condition.

Chromic low-grade inflammation is likely to be a factor in most cases of unexplained infertility as researchers estimate that silent, low-grade inflammation can cause up to 50% of cases of unexplained infertility.

How can chronic inflammation affect fertility?

1. Chronic inflammation can damage reproductive cells and tissues such as the egg, uterus, ovaries and sperm.

   
   

2. Chronic inflammation can be the driver of an autoimmune response in the body in which elevated antibodies cause the body to attack its own tissues, which may include a fetus.

   
   

A close relationship exists between inflammation and oxidative stress, as high levels of oxidative stress can cause unexplained infertility. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance of free radicals (created by factors such as a poor diet, stress, smoking and excessive exercise) and antioxidants in the body. This is where NAC (and glutathione) becomes important as it is a powerful antioxidant that helps to prevent free radical damage to cells and DNA causes by inflammation and oxidative stress.

These are the times when supplemental NAC may be beneficial:

Unexplained infertility - because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as many cases of unexplained infertility can be linked to chronic inflammation.

Fertility over 40 - NAC is helpful for women over 40 to help protect against the age-related decline in egg quality.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - NAC has been shown to improve ovulation, insulin sensitivity, and hormonal balance in women with PCOS. Some studies suggest it may work similarly to metformin in improving fertility.

Endometriosis - NAC may help reduce endo related inflammation, which may improve fertility outcomes.

Poor egg quality and low AMH - As an antioxidant, NAC helps reduce oxidative stress, which can improve egg health and improve ovarian reserve.

Low sperm count and DNA fragmentation - NAC can improve sperm motility, count, and morphology by reducing oxidative stress.

IVF support - some studies have showed that NAC supplementation may improve the success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF), especially in women with lower ovarian reserve or those undergoing fertility treatments over the age of 40. It would be beneficial for both the male and female to take NAC for at least three months prior to IVF.

NAC is generally considered a safe supplement to take, but high doses may cause gastrointestinal symptoms. A typical dose would be 600mg 1–3 x a day but it is best to work with a qualified practitioner to make sure NAC is suitable for you.

I personally didn’t use NAC for my fertility issues, mainly because I wasn’t aware of it at the time, as it is something that has become more popular in recent years because of emerging research. I did, however, take it for asthma from time to time as it is great for clearing mucus from the lungs, so is definitely one for the respiratory tool kit.  

So, if you feel that inflammation might be a factor with your fertility issues, or you are looking to improve egg quality or sperm health and you are over the age of 40, then there would be no harm in trying NAC but do work with a qualified practitioner who can recommend the appropriate dose for you.

For further information about unexplained infertility, check out my recently published book on Unexplained Secondary Infertility, which is available in paperback or e book format.