L-cysteine is another name for cysteine, an amino acid with a commercial supplement form available. Your body converts cysteine into glutathione, an antioxidant. When you take the dietary supplement, known as N-acetylcysteine, your body first converts the substance to cysteine. Then it transforms it into glutathione. L-cysteine supplements can interact adversely with hypertension drugs. Talk to your doctor before supplementing your diet with the amino acid.
L-cysteine and Hypertension
Hypertension is another name for high blood pressure, a condition that occurs when your arteries are too narrow to accommodate the amount of blood your heart is pumping. When that happens, your doctor may prescribe a medication to reduce the pressure. L-cysteine can increase the effect of the medication, taking your blood pressure to levels that are too low for your body to function properly.
L-cysteine Benefits
L-cysteine is essential for the production of the antioxidant glutathione. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, molecules that appear as a byproduct of digestion. Exposure to environmental toxins can also cause free radicals to form. The substances damage cells and can cause serious diseases such as cancer. L-cysteine supplements also help in the treatment of bronchitis and drug-caused liver intoxication. Besides, the product supports the health of individuals whose immune system is weakened by AIDS or cancer, for example.
L-cysteine Side Effects
The potential side effects of L-cysteine run from mild to life-threatening. You may feel nauseated and have bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. Supplementation can also lead to heart disease by raising the levels of homocysteine in your body. The substance is an amino acid linked to cardiac problems. An L-cysteine overdose is toxic and can be fatal. Do not take more than your doctor prescribes. Allergic reactions that cause swelling, difficulty breathing and death are also possible.
Adverse Drug Interactions
L-cysteine supplements intensify the effects of hypertension medications. The result is blood pressure that is too low and can cause dizziness, fatigue, fainting, shallow breathing and, less commonly, death. If you are on medication for an autoimmune condition, L-cysteine can also increase the suppression of your immune system, making you more susceptible to disease. Tell your doctor about all medications and dietary supplements you take if she recommends you add L-cysteine supplements to your diet.
Natural L-cysteine Sources
You body makes L-cysteine from methionine, an amino acid you get from foods. Likewise, L-cysteine is available in what you eat. Dairy products, meats, wheat germ and oats, which are high in protein, are all good sources.
