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Guardwell Health Protocol

NAC vs Protandim NRF2: Which Is Best?

Some have heard of the supplement NAC and are aware that those who promote it celebrate its role in producing the highly potent antioxidant Glutathione. However, fewer are familiar with the powerhouse Protandim, which isn’t a supplement but a mix of compounds that act at the gene level to promote glutathione production.

In a world that loves bombarding you with health information, much of it conflicting, how do you decide which is best? The short answer is to do your homework. However, sometimes you want to work smarter, not harder, and let a trusted source do the legwork in your stead. If that sounds enticing, read on.

What Is Glutathione, and Why Is It Important?

Before focusing on the stars of the show, it helps to get familiar with the foundation that they work to support, namely, Glutathione (GSH). The peptide (a short chain of amino acids) Glutathione is a master in many capacities: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifier of every cell. 

One example of its vital role is that it can scavenge toxins such as heavy metals in the brain, convert them from fat to water-soluble to cross the blood-brain barrier, and deliver them to the liver, which can then take out the trash.[1]

GSH has multiple roles: DNA production, enzyme function, immune support, and organ function. Its ability to remove free radicals (damaging unstable molecules), peroxides, heavy metals, drugs, and other toxins is unparalleled. Because this function is essential, low glutathione levels are associated with many illnesses, from Alzheimer’s to hepatitis to cardiovascular disease, to name a few.[2]

WATCH: What is GLUTATHIONE?

Glutathione is one of the most important molecules you need to stay healthy and to help your body fight disease and rid itself of toxins.

Watch this video to discover the importance of Glutathione to your body and a clinically proven way you can increase your body's natural Glutathione production by up to 300% in only 120 days!

What Is NAC?

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an amino acid, a building block of protein. It acts as an antioxidant in the body, shows promise as an anticancer agent, and has approval as a drug for treating various conditions, ranging from Tylenol poisoning to lung issues.[3]

Medical professionals believe that NAC promotes the synthesis of Glutathione, which acts as a scavenger of free radicals, thus serving a protective, health-promoting function in the body.[4]

In addition, NAC shows promise in treating the following conditions[5]:

  • Neurological Disorders - Helps with problems of the brain and nerves, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's, by helping to regulate the chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) glutamate.

  • Insulin Resistance - Studies of women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) showed NAC reducing insulin resistance and helping regulate blood sugar.

  • Mental Health Disorders - There is some evidence that NAC helps improve symptoms of bipolar disorder and depression and assists people with addictions.

  • Heart Disease - Some studies show that NAC reduces LDL cholesterol and improves blood flow by boosting the production of Nitric Oxide.

  • AXIO Smart Energy Nootropic Supplement

    What Is Protandim NRF2?

    Protandim is a unique blend that produces enzymes that upregulate the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2-mediated (NRF2-pronounced nerf) antioxidant system. In other words, it gets the body to make precisely the protective agents it needs right when you need them. 

    This exciting health innovation could be a game changer for people across diverse conditions. Protandim is an antioxidant powerhouse consisting of five proven therapeutically effective components: 

  • Ashwagandha - An adaptogenic plant utilized for thousands of years in traditional medicine that shows clinical promise in treating various neurological diseases and stroke, in addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action.[6]

  • Bacopa - A highly valued medicinal herb that studies have shown improves memory and cognition, alleviates anxiety and depression, reduces stress, and promotes healthy brain aging.[7]

  • Green Tea - A well-known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, this beauty also promotes eye health, prevents muscle loss, protects organs, reduces the risk of stroke, and much more.[8]

  • Silymarin - Derived from Milk Thistle and favored in complementary and alternative medicine, this compound has been clinically demonstrated to protect the liver and heart and is a formidable foe to inflammation, cancer, and free radicals.[9]

  • Curcumin - An active component of the increasingly appreciated turmeric root, curcumin shows excellent results as an anti-inflammatory agent. Among its many impressive qualities, curcumin has the largest body of evidence of any nutrient demonstrating its anticancer properties.[10]

  • WATCH: Protandim NRF2

    Watch this Protandim ABC Special - Primetime Investigative Report on Protandim NRF2 and its Anti-aging, Antioxidant properties.

    Protandim Nrf2 Synergizer is the only supplement proven in a clinical study to reduce oxidative stress by an average of 40% in 30 days and increase Glutathione production by 300% in only 120 days!

    Each of the ingredients mentioned above stands alone as a shining example of health-promoting activity. However, the sum is decidedly more mind-blowing than the parts. In a beautiful display of synergy, they not only play well together, but they also double down on their benefits.


    For example, a peer-reviewed study showed that Protandim might change the face of aging, bringing a measure of grace to the process. The impressive results indicated a 300% increase in glutathione production and antioxidant effects superior to that of vitamins C and E.[11]


    These results translate into some tangible and coveted benefits worthy of further exploration. Protandim NRF2 promotes the following positive impacts:

    Immune Health

    The immune system is your first line of defense against harmful foreign agents.
    It functions at its best when it can manage the number of germs and other toxic offenders invading it, which enables it to distinguish friend from foe.
    This balance is primarily maintained by keeping the ratio of free radicals to antioxidants tipped towards the latter.[12]
    Protandim aids in this process by upregulating the body’s production of Glutathione, thus keeping the wheels of detoxification greased, maximizing the elimination of what is damaging, and minimizing inflammation.

    Anti-Aging

    Oxidative stress is a key contributor to the signs of aging.
    Protandim Nrf2 Synergizer is the only NRF2 Synergizer shown to reduce oxidative stress by 40% in only 30 days.
    This finding is backed by over 30 independent studies conducted by institutions such as Harvard, Ohio State, and the American Journal of Physiology, among others.[13]

    General Wellness

    By causing the body to activate genes that protect cells, assist vital functions, and repair tissues, Protandim promotes general wellness at the source: the cellular level.
    It does this by combining low, non-toxic doses of beneficial plant compounds that work together synergistically to boost antioxidant activity.[14]

    Energy

    Mitochondria are the mighty powerhouses of our cells.
    Reduction in their number or function via damage from oxidative stress causes our bodies to suffer.
    The consequence is fatigue, poor workout recovery, decreased quality of life, and eventually, if left untreated, chronic illness.[15]
    Fortunately, Protandim can induce your body to create Glutathione, which protects mitochondrial DNA, cell DNA, and the nucleus, thus supporting increased energy throughout your body.

    Gut Health

    Gut health suffers when too many reactive oxygen species (ROS) are present.
    Various gastrointestinal issues are related to this, ranging from reflux to ulcers.
    The body counters this by activating NRF2 to scavenge free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress.[16] Protandim promotes this process making for a happier, healthier gut.

    Weight Management

    A healthy metabolism is central to managing weight over the long term.
    Two major risk factors for developing obesity and other metabolic issues are inflammation and oxidative stress.[17]
    Again, Protandim holds an essential key to overcoming this.
    It promotes NRF2 activation suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress, enabling tissues and organs to heal, thus making weight management more achievable.

    Pet Health

    Like humans, our furry friends suffer when inflammation and stress get out of control, leading to diseases of the mouth, musculoskeletal system, heart, lungs, and more.[18]
    By stimulating your pet’s body to produce the necessary antioxidants, Protandim can help stave off disease and keep your pet on the path to good health.

    Lifevantage Daily Wellness

    Bringing It All Together

    By now, it should be clear that inflammation and oxidative stress wreak havoc on every cell of the body and that this nasty duo has its hand in most known conditions. In addition, the benefits of the master antioxidant glutathione in combatting these issues should be obvious. All that remains now is to crown the winner of the Protandim VS NAC debate.

    (Spoiler alert) it’s not NAC. Though this supplement has many demonstrable benefits, it cannot stand up to the superior action of Protandim in terms of Glutathione production, antioxidant production, and immunity.

    The reasons for this are complex, but essentially, Protandim goes straight to the source. The body's innate defence system is supported by activating the transcription factor (proteins that turn on specific genes) NRF2. The human body's intelligence is staggering, and with the right tools, the way it responds to threats has no equal.

    So, if you want to give your body a boost that enables it to produce on a dime exactly what it needs at any given moment, then Protandim might be for you.

    References list:

    [1] Jozefczak, Marijke, et al. "Glutathione Is a Key Player in Metal-Induced Oxidative Stress Defenses." International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 13, no. 3, 2011, pp. 3145-3175, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms13033145.

    [2] Paul, Dany. “Glutathione: Health Benefits, Safety Information, Dosage, and More.” WebMD, 28 November 2022, https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-glutathione.

    [3] “N-ACETYL CYSTEINE (NAC): Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews.” WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1018/n-acetyl-cysteine-nac.

    [4] Tinsley, Grant, et al. “NAC (N-acetylcysteine): Benefits, dosage, uses, and more.” Medical News Today, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327219#dosage.

    [5] Paul, Dany. “NAC: Health Benefits, Potential Risks, Dosage, and More.” WebMD, 26 November 2022, https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-nac.

    [6] "Phytomedicine: A Potential Alternative Medicine in Controlling Neurological Disorders." New Look to Phytomedicine, 2019, pp. 625-655, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-814619-4.00025-2.

    [7] "Ameliorative Effects of Nutraceuticals in Neurological Disorders." Bioactive Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements in Neurological and Brain Disease, 2015, pp. 245-260, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-411462-3.00027-8.

    [8] "Molecular Pathways, Green Tea Extract, (−)-Epigallocatechin Gallate, and Ocular Tissue." Handbook of Nutrition, Diet and the Eye, 2014, pp. 557-566, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-401717-7.00057-5.

    [9] "Phytonanoconjugates in Oral Medicine." Nanostructures for Oral Medicine, 2017, pp. 639-668, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-47720-8.00022-5.

    [10] "Curcumin." Nutraceuticals, 2016, pp. 435-445, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-802147-7.00031-0.

    [11] https://www.thepharmaletter.com/article/lifevantage-s-protandim-produces-300-rise-in-glutathione

    [12] Bendich, Adrianne. "Anti-Oxidant Micronutrients and the Immune System." Encyclopedia of Immunology (Second Edition), 1998, pp. 133-136, https://doi.org/10.1006/rwei.1999.0037.

    [13] Hybertson, Brooks, et al. "Oxidative Stress in Health and Disease: The Therapeutic Potential of Nrf2 Activation." Molecular Aspects of Medicine, vol. 32, no. 4-6, 2011, pp. 234-246, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mam.2011.10.006.

    [14] Velmurugan, Kalpana, et al. "Synergistic Induction of Heme Oxygenase-1 by the Components of the Antioxidant Supplement Protandim." Free Radical Biology and Medicine, vol. 46, no. 3, 2009, pp. 430-440, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2008.10.050.

    [15] “Haloperidol-induced changes in glutathione and energy metabolism: effect of nicergoline.” iris unipv, https://iris.unipv.it/retrieve/handle/11571/137711/3555/Nicer1999.pdf.

    [16] Yanaka, Akinori. "Role of NRF2 in Protection of the Gastrointestinal Tract against Oxidative Stress." Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition, vol. 63, no. 1, 2018, pp. 18-25, https://doi.org/10.3164/jcbn.17-139.

    [17] Li, Shiri, et al. "The Role of the Nrf2 Signaling in Obesity and Insulin Resistance." International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 21, no. 18, 2020, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21186973.

    [18] Harman, Denham. “A REVIEW OF OXIDATIVE STRESS AND THE NRF2 PATHWAY.” Integrative Veterinary Care, https://www.intvetcare.com/_files/ugd/8ae507_585f1c69384644489adf98f6f464eba4.pdf

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