Our bodies deteriorate over time but there may be a few things we can do to help slow this deterioration, or even reverse it. One interesting combo supplement that has been making a lot of headlines lately is glycine and N-acetylcysteine (GlyNAC). Both substances play a role in the synthesis of glutathione (GSH).
Glutathione is a tripeptide (cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid). Here are the key roles glutathione plays in the body…
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Direct chemical neutralization of singlet oxygen, hydroxyl radicals, and superoxide radicals
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Cofactor for several antioxidant enzymes
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Regeneration of vitamins C and E
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Neutralization of free radicals produced by Phase I liver metabolism of chemical toxins
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One of approximately 7 liver Phase II reactions, which conjugate the activated intermediates produced by Phase I to make them water-soluble for excretion by the kidneys
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Transportation of mercury out of cells and the brain
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Regulation of cellular proliferation and apoptosis
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Vital to mitochondrial function and maintenance of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)
This paper describes the actions of Glutathione far better than I can.
What the research shows…
This study showed glycine and N-acetylcysteine supplementation for 24-weeks was well tolerated and fought some of the Hallmarks of Aging. Supplementation lowered oxidative stress, corrected intracellular glutathione deficiency and mitochondrial dysfunction, decreased inflammation, insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction, and genomic damage, and improved strength, gait speed, cognition, and body composition. Supplementing GlyNAC in aging humans could be an easy way to promote health.
GlyNac was also found to increase the lifespan of mice. This study found that mice that received GlyNAC lived 24% longer than those that did not receive GlyNAC.
Below are figures that show the metabolism of glycine, N-acetylcysteine, and glutathione. As well as their beneficial pathways.
Results from supplementing GlyNAC in older adults
Glycine Metabolism
Biosynthesis of Glutathione
N-Acetylcysteine Metabolism
Glutathione Benefits
Supplementation with GlyNAC seems to be both safe and effective at decreasing the Hallmarks of Aging. After reviewing these studies it may be worth evaluating if adding these to your daily routine is right for you. Here are the products I am currently using to try to gain these longevity benefits.
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