Anti-Aging Effects of Sulfur-Containing Amino Acids and Nutraceuticals

Sulfur-containing amino acids such as L-cysteine and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), and nutraceuticals such as whey protein, are known to act as antioxidants. Their presence in diet provides protection against oxidative stress and contributes to the structure and stability of proteins. NAC replenishes intracellular levels of the natural antioxidant glutathione (GSH), helping to restore the ability of cells to fight damage from reactive oxygen species (ROS). Proteins rich in L-cysteine play an effective role as redox modulators during age-associated diseases. Whey protein is a rich source of sulfur-containing amino acids and is consumed as a functional food incorporating a wide range of nutritional attributes. The importance of sulfur-containing amino acids in maintenance of redox balance is crucial, and it has been reported to exert protective effects against various metabolic and age-related neurological disorders. There is a strong possibility of future strategies employing sulfur-containing amino acids in intervention to treat multiple metabolic and neuronal diseases.