Evidence supporting the use of: N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
For the health condition: Addictions (sugar or refined carbohydrates)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) is increasingly studied for its potential role in supporting treatment of addiction, including behavioral and substance-related dependencies such as those involving sugar or refined carbohydrates. The scientific rationale behind NAC's use is primarily its ability to modulate the brain's glutamatergic system, particularly in the nucleus accumbens—a key region involved in reward and addiction pathways. By restoring extracellular glutamate levels through action on the cystine-glutamate antiporter, NAC may help reduce compulsive behaviors and cravings observed in various types of addiction. A handful of small clinical trials and animal studies suggest NAC may reduce symptoms of addiction, especially for substances like cocaine, nicotine, and cannabis. Regarding sugar and refined carbohydrate addiction specifically, evidence is much more limited. Some animal studies indicate NAC can reduce binge eating of palatable foods, but robust human clinical trial data are lacking. A few pilot studies in humans with binge eating disorders or bulimia have found modest reductions in symptoms with NAC supplementation, though results are preliminary. Overall, while there is a plausible scientific mechanism and some supportive preclinical research, the evidence base for using NAC specifically to treat sugar or refined carbohydrate addiction is still emerging and not yet strong. Further, larger-scale clinical trials are needed to establish both efficacy and safety for this particular indication.

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