Cysteine

Description

Cysteine is a sulfur-containing, semi-essential amino acid, meaning the body can produce it from methionine if enough folate and vitamin B12 are present, but it can also be obtained through diet. It is a fundamental building block for proteins and plays a critical role in various biological functions, particularly in maintaining cellular health and integrity. One of Cysteine's most significant roles is its involvement in the synthesis of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress and helps detoxify harmful substances. It is also important for the production of taurine, another amino acid, and coenzyme A. Furthermore, Cysteine contributes to healthy skin, hair, and nails due to its sulfur content, which is essential for the formation of keratin. Beyond its structural and antioxidant functions, Cysteine supports immune system health, aids in the regulation of blood sugar levels, and is involved in the metabolism of certain neurotransmitters. Its ability to act as a chelating agent also suggests a role in binding to and removing heavy metals from the body, further highlighting its importance in detoxification pathways.

Sources
Poultry (chicken, turkey)EggsBeefDairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)Legumes (lentils, chickpeas)SoybeansSunflower seedsGarlicOnionsBroccoliBrussels sprouts
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Optimal Dosage
Minimum500 mg
Maximum1500 mg
Safety & Toxicity
Toxicity Threshold7000 mg
Toxicity EffectCytotoxicity; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Product stats
Price per product
Average$21.00
Median$18.08
Price per serving
Average$0.49
Median$0.39
Price per 100 mg
Average$0.39
Median$0.35
Price distribution
Price per serving distribution
Price per 100 mg
Reference amount: 100 mg
Forms
Paired ingredients
Ingredient forms
L-Cysteine Hydrochloride (7)82
L-Cysteine Hydrochloride is a hydrochloride salt of L-Cysteine, which is the biologically active form of the amino acid. It is an essential precursor for glutathione, a powerful endogenous antioxidant, and plays a vital role in protein synthesis, including keratin, which is fundamental for healthy skin, hair, and nails. This salt form enhances its stability and solubility, making it suitable for dietary supplements.
Pros
  • Highly bioavailable source of L-Cysteine
  • Supports endogenous glutathione production
  • Potent antioxidant properties
  • Aids in detoxification processes
  • Contributes to healthy skin, hair, and nails
Cons
  • May have a sulfurous odor or taste
  • Potential for mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals
Per product
Avg$13.54
Med$11.80
Per serving
Avg$0.29
Med$0.19
Per 10 mg
Avg$0.03
Med$0.03
Price distribution
L-Cysteine Hydrochloride Monohydrate (1)82
L-Cysteine Hydrochloride Monohydrate is a hydrated hydrochloride salt of L-Cysteine. Similar to the anhydrous form, it provides L-Cysteine, a semi-essential amino acid crucial for the synthesis of glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. The monohydrate form offers comparable stability and bioavailability, facilitating its use in nutritional supplements to support detoxification, immune function, and the structural integrity of tissues like skin, hair, and nails.
Pros
  • Excellent source of L-Cysteine for glutathione production
  • Potent antioxidant benefits to combat free radical damage
  • Supports liver detoxification pathways
  • Contributes to the health and strength of hair, skin, and nails
  • Good stability for formulation
Cons
  • May possess a faint sulfurous smell or taste
  • Some individuals might experience minor gastrointestinal upset
Per product
Avg$18.51
Med$18.51
Per serving
Avg$0.22
Med$0.22
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.02
Med$0.02
Price distribution