Can NAC stop Asian Flush?

If you’re looking for the best relief for Asian Flush, you’ve probably heard of N-Acetyl Cysteine (or NAC). So can NAC stop Asian Flush symptoms? And if so, how does it work?

NAC Asian Flush relief

The main issue with Asian Flush is acetaldehyde. It’s this harmful chemical that gives you all the negative symptoms you feel from alcohol, such as a bright red face, congestion, rapid heart rate and even hives or itchiness. To stop these symptoms, we must stop acetaldehyde.

What we need is something, or multiple chemicals, that can break down acetaldehyde as quickly as possible. Once we deal with this harmful chemical properly, the Asian Glow symptoms can subside. Acetaldehyde is often attributed to severe hangovers, so you can minimise the discomfort you feel the following day, too!

So can NAC provide Asian Flush relief? In part, yes!

A 1995 study showed that NAC given to rats before alcohol significantly reduced their levels of blood acetaldehyde.

The researchers reported:

“Increase in blood acetaldehyde with ethanol treatment was significantly attenuated with N-acetyl cysteine treatment. These results suggest that acetaldehyde may be the cause of ethanol-induced hypertension and elevated cytosolic free calcium and renal vascular changes.”

It’s then no surprise that we find NAC in many Asian Flush supplements, such as Sunset pills, Essential ADH2 and even Asian Flush patches like Redee. In fact, you should be wary of an Asian Flush product that does not contain NAC.

How does NAC help Asian Flush?

In simple terms, NAC is an amino acid that breaks down into Glutathione, one of the most important antioxidants for the body. It’s Glutathione that helps break down acetaldehyde, so the more of it in the body, the better. It also helps neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and tissues in your body. All in all, NAC (and subsequently Glutathione) is extremely important.

NAC is also commonly be found in hangover supplements as it can greatly reduce side effects from alcohol like headaches and nausea.

The issues with NAC:

Taking NAC alone for Asian Flush relief will not be enough. Unfortunately, there’s a few issues with NAC when used by itself.

1. NAC doesn’t catch all of the toxins that are created when alcohol is broken down in the body
2. We will still react to any toxins that slip through, causing negative symptoms
3. Alcohol largely reduces levels of Glutathione, so the more alcohol you drink, the more Glutathione that leaves your body

As a side note, NAC can also have a strong sulphur-smell, which isn’t pleasant. However, it’s still a really important component against Asian Flush.

Why can’t I use Pepcid AC for Asian Flush instead?

A popular choice for Asian Flush relief is often Pepcid AC, or similar antihistamines and antacids. However, none of these drugs are specifically for alcohol flush and will not reduce toxic acetaldehyde. It’s this chemical that causes Asian Flush symptoms in the first place.

Instead, Pepcid AC can mask the symptoms of Asian Glow, but not actually solve the problem. So while your face isn’t bright red anymore, you are still suffering from acetaldehyde internally.

If you want to learn more about other medicines, make sure to check out:

Does Benadryl help alcohol flush?

Pepto Bismol for Asian Glow – does it work?

Does Pepcid help with Asian Glow?

Is Zantac Safe for Asian Flush?

NAC for Asian Glow relief

In short, NAC is very important for Asian Glow relief. If you are looking for a product to reduce your flushing symptoms, make sure to check the ingredients list. While NAC is strong, it’s not enough against alcohol flushing alone.

If you want to do some research first, make sure to read our reviews before buying your next Asian Flush relief product! You’ll notice that many products included use NAC in some way.