NAC: Started for sleep, stayed for the clear skin?
So I started taking NAC about 3 weeks ago, mainly to help with my sleep (I'm a sleep-deprived parent, you know the drill). But my sleep has been meh, honestly. What I DID notice is that my skin looks... glowier? Like, my constant dry patches are gone. Anyone else have unexpected side effects? I'm not complaining, just curious.
That's a classic NAC side effect, man. It's a powerful antioxidant and helps with glutathione production, which is huge for skin health. Also, it can help with detox pathways, so that glow is probably your body clearing out crap. As for sleep, it's not a direct sedative, but some people find it helps by reducing oxidative stress and balancing glutamate. Give it more time, and maybe pair it with glycine if you're into the sleep stack.
Oh wow, I had the opposite! I started NAC for liver support (I drink a bit too much kombucha, lol) and ended up sleeping like a baby. It also calmed my anxiety a lot. I'm a meditation newbie and it's like my mind is clearer during sit. Maybe it's the glutamate thing Noah mentioned? Anyway, happy for your glow up! 💁♀️
Thanks guys! I didn't even think about the antioxidant angle. I'm also taking a B-complex and magnesium, so maybe that's helping too. But cool, I'll stick with it for a bit longer. Also, @NootropicNoah787, I've heard about glycine - might try that next. @JuiceJenny746, glad it helps your meditation! It's like a surprise gift, haha.