What is glutathione?
Glutathione is one of the most abundantly found antioxidants in our body and is considered a ‘master antioxidant’. It is made up of three amino acids namely, glycine, glutamic acid, and cysteine. Glutathione is involved in tissue building and repair, metabolizing toxins, making chemicals and proteins needed in our body, supporting the immune system, and protecting mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell). Antioxidants, like glutathione, are also known to reduce oxidative stress, reduce cell damage in alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, improve insulin resistance, increase mobility in peripheral artery disease. Glutathione have also been associated with reducing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, reduce symptoms of respiratory disease, improve psoriasis, and can help with fighting against autoimmune diseases.
What causes glutathione deficiency?Glutathione levels can be decreased by several factors including environmental toxins, chronic stress, poor nutrition intake, and alcohol abuse. Excessive use of Tylenol can result in the depletion of glutathione levels as well. Medical conditions known to have low glutathione levels include HIV/AIDS, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, hepatitis, and malignancies.
How is glutathione produced?N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is the precursor to glutathione. NAC gets absorbed in the gut and is then sent to the liver where it is converted into cysteine. Cysteine is then incorporated along with glutamic acid and glycine to produce glutathione ultimately.
What are some ways to increase glutathione levels?Some ways to increase glutathione levels in the body include (Berkheiser, 2018):
1. Turmeric: The compound curcumin found in turmeric helps restore adequate levels of glutathione and its function.
2. Selenium: Selenium deficiency leads to a deficiency in glutathione. Selenium functions as an essential mineral and cofactor to glutathione.
3. Vitamin C and vitamin E: Research suggests that vitamins E and C have a synergistic relationship with glutathione. Specifically, vitamin C helps in increasing glutathione levels (Oberg, 2018).
4. Milk thistle: Milk thistle is another supplement that can help increase glutathione levels. Remember that silymarin is the active ingredient in milk thistle and it is a well-known antioxidant itself. It is silymarin that increases glutathione levels in the body.
Theoretically only the supplement NAC is likely to truly raise glutathione levels. Most pre-formed supplement such as this, will likely get broken down into their constituent parts by stomach content before getting into the bloodstream. Doses for glutathione is dependent on the intended effect. For best results, start with manufacturer recommended doses.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
© Dr. Dennis D. Walker . All Rights Reserved