L-cysteine is a semi-essential amino acid. It can be produced in the body but requires other amino acids to do this. If your diet is low in the required amino acids methionine and serine, then L-cysteine will become much more essential. You can get L-cysteine from certain foods like turkey, chicken, eggs, cheese, and sunflower seeds, but you may also need supplemental support to get the amount you need for optimal health.
L-cysteine helps to replenish glutathione in your body, a powerful antioxidant that reduces typical oxidative stress. By promoting antioxidant activity, L-cysteine supports essential cell functions and processes throughout the body. In particular, this amino acid has been shown to possess benefits for liver function and digestive and metabolic health.
L-Cysteine and Liver Health
Your liver plays important digestive and non-digestive roles. It is responsible for aiding the proper breakdown of food as well as the detoxification of your body. As the main player for processing compounds from your blood, the liver is constantly exposed to everyday toxins from the environment. Additionally, the liver undergoes 30,000 enzymatic reactions per second, so even a healthy liver can get exerted sometimes.
Liver function impacts other systems in the body, including food digestion, which is responsible for metabolic health. In addition to this, your liver is responsible for removing compounds from the blood.
L-cysteine has been found to promote liver function by increasing the production of glutathione. This increased antioxidant activity helps reduce typical oxidative stress to the liver cells, allowing time for repair and regeneration.
Maintaining proper L-cysteine levels in the body also promotes healthy liver detoxification. In addition, by providing antioxidant support for the liver as it processes a variety of compounds, the organ’s structure can be maintained. It also supports the production of new liver cells for long-term liver health.
Additional Health Benefits of L-Cysteine
In addition to the essential roles L-cysteine plays for liver and metabolic health, there are other important ways this amino acid supplement can boost your health and well-being.
Support Respiratory Health
In addition to the antioxidant activity of L-cysteine, it also benefits the lungs. It works to maintain normal mucus thickness in the airways, which helps to relieve occasional respiratory symptoms. By promoting glutathione production, L-cysteine also reduces typical oxidative stress in the lungs triggered by common seasonal threats.
Boost Brain Health
L-cysteine helps support glutamate levels in the brain. This important neurotransmitter is involved in learning and memory. The production of glutathione also protects brain tissues from typical oxidative damage, benefiting cognitive function by promoting brain cell function.
Promote Heart Health
L-cysteine can promote heart health by promoting antioxidant activity. L-cysteine also supports healthy blood sugar levels, which can promote proper blood pressure levels and reduce common strain on blood vessels.
Support Immune Function
Supplementation of L-cysteine has been linked to improved immune system function through increased production of glutathione. By helping to regulate immune cell activation, your immune responses are more efficient, and you have better defense from seasonal threats.
Taking L-Cysteine
Your body can produce small amounts of cysteine, so there is no specific dietary recommendation for this amino acid. Taking a doctor-recommended supplement that includes L-cysteine can ensure your liver gets the support it needs and follow the recommended dosage on the label. For optimal results, choose a supplement that includes scientifically studied ingredients and no unnecessary fillers.
Side Effects and Warnings
L-cysteine is the supplemental version of a natural amino acid that your body can make. It is considered safe for adult consumption and long-term use. Side effects of taking L-cysteine are rare, but they may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation if they do occur. It is important to note that these side effects are typically associated with higher doses.
As with any supplement, there is a risk of interactions with medications, and L-cysteine should not be taken with drugs that suppress the immune system. It is also not recommended for pregnant women or nursing mothers. Individuals with chronic metabolic health concerns should speak with their doctor before starting an L-cysteine supplement.
The Bottom Line
Even though your body can produce L-cysteine in small amounts, L-cysteine supplements can be great for supporting liver function to promote overall health. By supporting proper detoxification and replenishing levels of the antioxidant glutathione, L-cysteine puts liver function and your health first.
