L-Glutathione

Glutathione is one of the major sulfur-containing compounds in the human body.  L-glutathione is a powerful antioxidant; it is necessary for carbohydrate metabolism; it has anti-aging properties and breaks down oxidized fats.

Glutathione is found in high concentrations in the lens of the eye.  While there is still some debate about the intestinal absorption of oral glutathione, serum levels of glutathione can be increased by the ingestion of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC).

Source

The body produces L-glutathione from the amino acids cysteine, glutamic acid and glycine.

Glutathione is found as a stereoisomer and should be in the 'L' configuration (L-glutathione).  It is listed in the U.S.P. and can be purchased as such.

Function; Why it is Recommended

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.

Glutathione is a major antioxidant, especially able to reduce disulfide bonds.  It also acts as a coenzyme for various enzymatic reactions.

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.

The sulfur molecule is able to stimulate the secretion of bile in the liver.  This effect, along with its antioxidant ability, makes it useful in liver detoxification products.

Increased levels of glutathione have been shown to slow the progression of cataracts.

References & Further Information

Glutathione status can be evaluated by labs such as Metametrix, Antibody Assay Labs, Great Smokies and Diagnos-Techs – see our links page.