Glutathione Overview

Learn about one of the most powerful & versatile of the body's self-generated antioxidants...

Glutathione is a sulfur-containing amino acid that is an important part of the body's antioxidant defense system. Glutathione is composed of three different amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. Vitamins B6 and riboflavin are critical for maintaining adequate levels of glutathione within the body.

Research suggests that a variety of minerals, including copper and selenium, have a strong influence on cellular levels of glutathione. In addition, selenium is an essential part of many different forms of glutathione that exist in the body.

Because of its antioxidant properties, glutathione neutralizes damaging free radicals and peroxide molecules, and recharges oxidized vitamin C, so that the body may reuse it. Glutathione is required for a variety of metabolic processes. In addition, glutathione bolsters the structure of body proteins and assists in the transport of amino acids across cell membranes.

Interestingly, the phytochemical limonene may boost the body's synthesis of a glutathione-containing enzyme that has antioxidant properties and helps to detoxify chemicals. Limonene is found in citrus fruit peels, cherries, green foods (celery, fennel), soy products, and wheat. Several foods contain naturally occurring glutathione, including avocado, watermelon, asparagus, grapefruit, potato, acorn squash, strawberries, orange, tomato, cantaloupe, broccoli, okra, peach, zucchini, and spinach. Note that there are no known interactions of glutathione with food. Although a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) has not been established for glutathione, it is critical for optimal health.

Properties and Health Benefits

Among glutathione's many important properties and benefits are:

1) It is found in almost all living cells. The liver, spleen, kidneys, pancreas, and the lens and cornea, have the highest concentrations in the body.

2) It is a powerful antioxidant and thus neutralizes free radicals and prevents their formation.

3) Important role in immune function via white blood cell production and is one of the most potent anti-viral agents known.

4) It is one of the strongest anti-cancer agents manufactured by the body.

5) Glutathione is able to reduce oxidized Vitamin C and Vitamin E back to their unoxidized state.

6) It is used by the liver to detoxify many toxins including formaldehyde, acetaminophen, benzpyrene and many other compounds and plays a key role in Phase I and Phase II detoxification reactions.

7) It is an antioxidant necessary for the protection of proteins; is involved in nucleic acid synthesis and plays a role in DNA repair.

8) It maintains the cellular redox potential.

9) Glutathione levels decrease with age. It is involved in cellular differentiation and slows the aging process.

10) Protects the integrity of red blood cells.

11) Glutathione is involved in maintaining normal brain function.