Health Guide

N-acetyl glutamine

N-acetyl glutamine (NAG) is a modified form of the amino acid glutamine. While your body makes glutamine naturally to support immune function and gut health, NAG is a specific supplement form designed to be more stable and potentially easier to absorb. Think of it as a specialized fuel source for your body's cellular repair systems. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of your intestinal lining and supporting your immune cells, making it a popular choice for those looking to heal their gut or boost resilience against environmental stressors.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Absorption Efficiency: NAG vs. Glutamine

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Absorption Rate

Form →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Gut Barrier Protection: Helps fortify the lining of your digestive tract.
Immune Support: Fuels white blood cells to fight off threats.
Better Absorption: The acetyl group may help it pass through the gut wall more efficiently than plain glutamine.

Deep Dive

N-acetyl glutamine acts as a direct building block for the cells lining your intestines. If you suffer from 'leaky gut' or digestive upset, NAG provides the raw materials needed to repair those tight junctions. Furthermore, because the acetyl group helps it cross biological membranes, it may offer targeted support for cellular energy and immune defense without the rapid metabolism that plain glutamine undergoes in the bloodstream. It is particularly useful during times of physical stress or intense training.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike some nutrients, N-acetyl glutamine is not found directly in significant quantities in fruits or vegetables. It is derived from Glutamine, which is abundant in protein-rich foods. The body then converts dietary glutamine into the active form.

Food	Amount (Glutamine)	Notes
Chicken Breast	High	Excellent bioavailable source
Beef	High	Rich in amino acids
Eggs	Medium	Easy to digest protein
Cabbage	Low-Medium	A rare plant source of free glutamine
Spinach	Low-Medium	Contains decent amounts

Supplementation

Dosage: Typical doses range from 500mg to 1500mg daily. Start with a lower dose to assess tolerance. Who Should Take It: Individuals with digestive issues, those recovering from surgery or illness, or athletes looking for gut support.

Top Food Sources

Chicken Breast

Best natural source of Glutamine

Beef

Rich in all essential amino acids

Eggs

Highly bioavailable

Cabbage

Rare plant source of free Glutamine

Tofu

Plant-based option

Frequently Asked Questions

No. NAG is a modified version. The acetyl group makes it more stable and potentially better absorbed, offering targeted support for the gut lining.

Not directly. You get glutamine from vegetables like cabbage and spinach, but N-acetyl glutamine is primarily a supplement form derived from these protein structures.

Most people notice digestive improvements within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use.

There is insufficient research on children. Always consult a pediatrician before giving amino acid supplements to minors.

Safety & Side Effects

N-acetyl glutamine is generally considered safe for most adults when taken at recommended doses for short periods.

Potential Side Effects:

Mild digestive upset (bloating or gas).
In rare cases, it may cause skin rashes.

Who Should Avoid It:

Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Due to a lack of safety data.
Kidney or Liver Disease: Consult a doctor, as amino acid metabolism relies on these organs.
Medication Interactions: Use caution if taking anti-seizure medications.

Scientific References

[1]National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Dietary Supplements Fact Sheet on Glutamine
[2]Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition - Glutamine supplementation in critical illness
[3]Amino Acids (Journal) - Pharmacokinetics of N-acetyl-glutamine