Evidence supporting the use of: Cysteine
For the health condition: Convalescence

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Synopsis

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

Cysteine is a semi-essential amino acid that serves as a precursor to glutathione, a critical antioxidant involved in cellular protection and detoxification processes. Its use in supporting convalescence—the recovery period following illness or surgery—has some scientific rationale, primarily due to its role in enhancing antioxidant defenses and supporting immune function. Several clinical studies have shown that N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a common supplemental form of cysteine, can improve glutathione status and reduce oxidative stress in hospitalized and critically ill patients, which may, in turn, support recovery. For example, NAC has been used as an adjunct in respiratory conditions and in patients with sepsis or trauma to minimize tissue damage and inflammation. However, direct clinical trials specifically focused on cysteine supplementation solely for the general process of convalescence are limited. The evidence is stronger for its use in certain conditions (like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or acetaminophen poisoning) rather than in routine post-illness recovery. As a result, while there is a scientific basis for cysteine’s supportive role during recovery, especially in situations involving oxidative stress or glutathione depletion, the overall level of evidence for broad application in convalescence is moderate and not universally endorsed in clinical practice guidelines.

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Products containing Cysteine

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