Glutathione is a peptide found in both humans and plants, it is a powerful antioxidant produced by the liver to protect the body against free radicals, peroxides, pollutants, and heavy metals. Glutathione is essential for the immune system to function properly and repair damaged tissues. It is important to maintain healthy levels of glutathione in the body because lowered amounts can lead to higher risks of cancer, type 2 diabetes, hepatitis, and Parkinson’s disease. Some dietary supplements to take that increase Glutathione are curcumin, selenium, vitamin C and E- which all aid the liver in producing the peptide.
- Antioxidant activity: Glutathione is known as THE super-antioxidant. By definition, free radicals are unstable atoms that can damage cells, causing illness and aging. By adding antioxidant sources to your diet, you can prevent your body from oxidizing your cells and counteract the damage of free radicals. Similar to slices of apples, when they are left outside too long they begin to turn brown- similarly, glutathione stops this process from occurring in our bodies.
- May Aid with Autism: A small number of studies have found that children with autism have lower levels of glutathione than those without autism. Research also shows that oxidative stress is high in children with autism and glutathione can help regenerate the damaged cells. In this research study, it was found that oral glutathione supplements or injections might help reduce some effects of autism. Further research is needed to confirm reduced or improved symptoms.
- Reduces cell damage in liver: Hepatitis, alcohol abuse, Type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver diseases all damage the cells of the liver. BMC Gastroenterology published a study that proved the positive effects glutathione had on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease when tested. This is due to glutathiones’ antioxidant properties and its potential to detoxify our bodies.
- Improves insulin sensitivity: The production of insulin causes the body to move glucose, sugar, from the blood and into cells that convert it to energy. Type 2 diabetes can lead to various organ damage if insulin, hypertension, and cholesterol are not controlled properly. In a 2018 study, it showed that people with insulin resistance had lower glutathione levels. In addition, the risk was higher for those individuals that had previous complications, such as neuropathy or retinopathy.
- May Reduce Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease: There are studies that have proven a link between glutathione levels and decreased brain health. Glutathione can reduce neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s disease. For example, this study detailed the effects and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease which led to increased oxidative stress in the body. In addition, it proved that injected glutathione therapy helped reduce some symptoms.
- May Reduce Respiratory Disease Symptoms: Multiple studies support the use of glutathione for significant health benefits on the lungs, kidney and liver. Glutathione can help reduce airway inflammation, especially in smokers, and reduce progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. As stated previously, glutathione goes through a detoxification process in the liver and the same detox happens in the lungs through a similar process.
- Detoxification: Glutathione is not like drinking detox smoothies or teas. Glutathione contributes to the stages of natural detoxification in the body by destroying free radicals and assisting the enzymes that break down toxins in the liver, lungs, intestines and kidneys. Another way glutathione protects cells from oxidative stress is by recycling vitamin C and E. Increased levels of glutathione result in a healthy immune function and general antioxidant defenses against free radicals. One study found that although people who ate a lot of fish had above normal levels of mercury, those that naturally produce higher levels of glutathione were less likely to retain mercury in their bodies.
- Improves energy: Low on energy and wondering why? Energy production occurs within the cells via the mitochondria, which is like the powerhouse of the cells. Glutathione is believed to protect the mitochondria from free radicals and the oxidative damage they cause. If the mitochondria becomes damaged, production of cells starts to slow down and create less energy, which in turn leads to decreased body function and efficiency. Increased intake of glutathione can aid in binding free radicals and relieving oxidative stress- and boosting energy!
- Improves skin: If you are trying to get rid of acne, wrinkles, dryness, eczema, then glutathione could be the answer! Research shows that glutathione is an effective answer thanks to its natural antioxidative properties. These compounds can help regenerate and heal the cells inside your body. In a 2013 study, glutathione was shown to decrease psoriasis when participants ate 20g of whey protein daily for 12 weeks to increase their glutathione levels.
- Fights inflammation: Inflammation is a common symptom of the majority of chronic illnesses and various natural healing processes in the body. Glutathione is known to help regulate and reduce inflammation. A recent study also found that low levels of glutathione could be a major cause of excessive inflammatory response linked to severe COVID-19 symptoms. Therefore, increasing the levels of glutathione can reduce the symptoms of this virus.
