The body produces L-glutathione from the amino acids cysteine, glutamic acid and glycine. It is a powerful antioxidant, necessary for carbohydrate metabolism, has anti-aging properties and breaks down oxidized fats.
L-glutathione, in its reduced form is a master antioxidant and detoxifier. It protects tissues by neutralizing free radicals, and improves the immune system by promoting antigen presentation and stimulating CD8 cells. Glutathione is involved in various liver detoxification processes. Alpha lipoic acid, selenium, vitamin C, TMG, NAC, Milk Thistle (silymarin), coffee enemas, cold-processed whey proteins, colostrum, certified raw milk and L-glutamine support increased glutathione levels.
Supplementation with reduced glutathione does not necessarily raise tissue levels of glutathione, and it can be expensive. While the unreduced form is much cheaper, it is not metabolically active. Doctors often report that clinical benefits achieved with intravenous reduced glutathione are not seen when it is taken orally. Riboflavin and niacinamide are essential cofactors for generating reduced glutathione.
Common toxins that glutathione may help protect against are car exhaust, cigarette smoke, heavy metals, aspirin and alcohol, as well as many pesticides and industrial chemicals.
Glutathione status can be evaluated by labs such as Metametrix, Antibody Assay Labs, Great Smokies and Diagnostechs – see our links page.