Glutathione is a powerhouse in the health arena, often nicknamed the "master antioxidant" for its remarkable ability to combat oxidative stress and protect the body from cellular damage. This tri-peptide, found abundantly in various tissues, is essential for life itself, with its highest concentrations located in the liver, the lenses of the eyes, the spleen, the pancreas, and the kidneys. Glutathione serves as a formidable shield against the harmful effects of toxins, chemicals, and metabolic waste, playing a crucial role in defending the body against the ravages of aging and numerous diseases.

Synthesised in the liver from three key amino acids—cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine—glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that neutralises free radicals. These unstable molecules can wreak havoc on the health of cells, damaging DNA while advancing the ageing process and disease. This remarkable compound provides protection against a variety of harmful agents, including the smoke from cigarettes and vapes, radiation exposure, chemotherapy, and toxic substances like alcohol. Furthermore, glutathione is instrumental in detoxifying heavy metals such as arsenic, aluminium, cadmium, lead, and mercury, making it essential in the body's defence against blood and liver disorders.

As we age, our cellular levels of glutathione naturally declines, resulting in a gradual decrease in immune function. Studies show an approximate 17% drop in glutathione levels between the ages of 40 and 60, with older cells possessing 20 to 30% less of this crucial antioxidant than their younger counterparts. It is no surprise that individuals with elevated levels of glutathione not only tend to suffer from fewer diseases but also lead longer and healthier lives.

Glutathione acts as a vigilant protector of cells by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) before they can cause damage. It further contributes to the body’s defence systems by being a key component of glutathione-S-transferase, an enzyme needed for liver detoxification. Its protective effects extend to other body tissues, including the arteries, brain, heart, immune system, kidneys, lenses of the eyes, liver, lungs, and skin, offering a potent line of defence against oxidative injury. Additionally, glutathione plays a significant role in reducing cancer risk and alleviating any adverse effects linked to ageing.

This indispensable super nutrient enhances the integrity and structure of red blood cells, ensuring optimal oxygen transport throughout the body. Glutathione supports overall immune health by detoxifying dangerous substances and inhibiting the overproduction of cytokines linked to autoimmune diseases. Its ability to facilitate the delivery of essential nutrients to white blood cells further underscores its protective role, ensuring that these critical components of the immune system remain strong and resilient against potential damage.

Essential Roles in the Body:

Neutralises free radicals
Protect cells against oxidative damage that drives aging and chronic disease
Regulates immune responses
Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress damage
Vital for regenerating and maintaining a healthy cell balance
Helps to recycle vitamin E and C, this maintaining their antioxidant activities
Protects against the damaging effects of air pollution, alcohol, DDT, fluoride, smoking and other toxins
Reduces the side effects of chemotherapy drugs and radiation
Aids in the removal of heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury
Skin lightening effects by reducing melanin
Protects brain neurons against damage aiding Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and cognitive decline
Reduces the risk of metabolic syndrome
Reduces inflammation in the intestinal lining aiding Crohn's Disease
A longevity amino acid.

Boost Levels Naturally

Food sources of glutathione include

Foods rich in sulfer: garlic, onions, broccoli, kale, brussels sprouts, cauliflower,

Foods rich in selenium like brazil nuts

Spinach, avocado, asparagus, turmeric

Foods high in Vitamin C help to recycle glutathione like citrus, kiwi, strawberry, pineapple, papaya

Whey Protein: provides cysteine for glutathione production

Exercise: Regular moderate exercise can increase levels

Sleep: Glutathione levels replenish with deep, restful sleep

Supplements to boost glutathione: NAC, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Resveratrol, Liposomal Glutathione, Liposomal Vitamin C

Herbs to Boost Glutathione Levels – Milk Thistle, Turmeric (Curcumin), Green Tea (EGCG), Schisandra, Ashwaghanda, Gingko Biloba, Gotu Kola

Medicinal Mushrooms are incredible at boosting glutathione levels. Reishi increases glutathione levels in the liver and enhances the activity of glutathione peroxidase. Cordyceps boosts glutathione peroxidase

What Reduces Levels of This Important Antioxidant?

Aging
Stress
Poor Diet
Smoking, vaping
Alcohol
Pollution/Toxins
Infections or Chronic Illness
Genetic Mutations ie. homozygous GPX1, Deletion of Glutathione genes in liver etc

Absorption

Most researchers agree that glutathione is poorly absorbed when supplemented orally as it quickly breaks down into its individual amino acids. Injectable glutathione is presumed to be more absorbable (bioavailable) to the body than orally administered glutathione. The best way to give glutathione to the body is via cysteine (or N-Acetyl Cysteine), alpha lipoic acid and its precursors or alternatively use liposomal glutathione.