Nutrition is an absolutely essential part of physiological wellness. The role of supplemental nutrition, and its overall importance to you, depends on a range of individualistic health, genetic, and lifestyle factors. To make certain our readers can see new products that help them, we continue our ‘Alphabet Soup’ arrangement of products with their one particular Note of distinction in common: They all start with the letter ‘N’.
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is a supplemental form of the crucial amino acid called cysteine. Cysteine is consumed primarily from the ingestion of animal foods and whole grains. Those who don’t consume cysteine and associated amino acids are most likely to benefit from taking NAC. It contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce risk of chronic disease. One presumed benefit of an NAC supplement is improved weight loss (if desired or needed) due to enhanced fat storage and metabolism. Another is the ability to improve kidney and liver function in order to detox chemicals from the body. Separately and most exclusively, NAC can help chronic lung disease patients by reducing oxidative stress and improving lung function. All of these make N-acetylcysteine a highly valuable supplement.
Nattokinase is a natural enzyme derived from natto, a very common food in the land of Japan. It is created by the fermentation process of the natto plant. Research credibly attributes nattokinase with contributing to Japan’s lower risk of chronic disease and longer lifespan. Natto is the only source of this enzyme, and a natto supplement is valuable for its shelf life and concentrated form. Nattokinase is beneficial to heart health because it reduces unwanted clots in the blood stream, thereby contributing to healthy blood pressure and blood vessel structure. Furthermore, nattokinase can contribute to improved sinus health in those with conditions such as bronchitis and COPD; it can also encourage healthy gut microbiome, which can produce significant benefits to immunity and reduce risk of chronic disease.
Niacinamide is the technical name for vitamin B3, and it is in fact a special form of this singular vitamin. There are a few specific reasons to supplement with niacinamide. First, it supports skin health and is able to reverse one cause of skin issues: niacin deficiency. It can also help treat acne and reduce skin inflammation. Separately, taking niacinamide could help kidney dialysis patients at risk of hyperphosphatemia (excessive blood phosphorous levels).
Nutraflora FOS, a marketed moniker of fructooligosaccharides (FOS), are a type of carbohydrate. Short fructose chain oligosaccharides occur in many plants, and they are made available in condensed, powdered form. The primary purpose of Nutraflora FOS is as a low-calorie, alternative sweetener. FOS are nondigestible, yet natural (and not artificial). The flowery marketing for FOS is because of its tangible health benefits. FOS has prebiotic qualities, which means it supports the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Similarly, research suggests that FOS could also combat unwanted bacteria, including Salmonella. Nutraflora FOS also provides healthful fiber, and can help manage blood cholesterol levels.
Consider these four ‘N’ supplements for their multiplicity of general benefits, their ability to help prevent disease, and to sustain organ function and longevity. It’s recommended that you always talk to your healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your daily dietary regimen for the first time.