Supplements that Help Decrease the Affects of Asthma

I started writing this column when the Citizen was first started (about 15 years ago). I’m always excited to hear and learn from my readers. This is a quote from a reader in Berryville, who took the time to tell of his experience dealing with asthma.

He says, “Asthma is a very debilitating condition and can just make life miserable. I found several things that helped alleviate the symptoms somewhat; turmeric as an anti-inflammatory seemed to be of some use. But the one supplement I found that has almost completely alleviated all of my symptoms/suffering is L-Glutathione. I take 500 mg. a day and almost forget that I have the condition”.

Glutathione is an anti-aging, anti-toxin, anti-disease amino acid which is critical to health  which most people know little to nothing about. Pharmaceutical companies have done extensive study on this very natural supplement. Taking as little as 150mg/day (in a reduced form) by mouth has helped many. Still, I like a supplement called N-acetyl cysteine even better than straight glutathione.

Glutathione levels decrease as we age. There is a corresponding decline in our health and longevity as levels drop. Low glutathione levels have been linked to cardiovascular disease, cataracts, macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s as well as aging in general. In our animal friends, researchers at Louisiana State University showed a clear and definite linkage to the levels of glutathione and the drop in inflammation which goes hand in hand with the healing of inflammatory bowel disease. Asthma is connected to inflammation, too, as is coronary artery disease.

I checked PubMed and the National Library of Medicine, searching for N- acetyl cysteine which produces glutathione in our system. I found hundreds of scientific studies showing benefit including liver health. I found none demonstrating toxicity especially at 600-1200mg per day when swallowed.

Cruciferous veggies such as broccoli and especially brussels sprouts are good sources though you have to eat them regularly and have large servings. Garlic, scallions, onions and shallots all make the glutathione in the broccoli (and family) work better in your system. A supplement of 150 mg (or more) of reduced glutathione or better yet 1200mg of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC-600) seems prudent and workable.

This week only (May 14th – 17th, 2015) , get NAC-600 for only $15.99 (retails for $18.99). Visit our online store to get NAC-600 on sale now!

In good health,

Dr. Fain