What is glutathione?
Glutathione (GSH) is a small protein consisting of three amino acids: glutamate, cysteine and glycine. It occurs naturally in the body, especially in the liver and other organs that detoxify harmful substances.
How does glutathione work in the body?
Glutathione has several functions in the body, including helping to maintain normal immune system function and supporting detoxification processes. Glutathione acts as an antioxidant, scavenging free radicals or reactive oxygen species that can damage cells by attacking their DNA, proteins and other molecules. In this way, glutathione helps protect the body from oxidative damage.
It binds toxins and pollutants in the body so that they can be more easily excreted through the urine or bile. It also plays a role in the regeneration of other antioxidants such as vitamin C and E. This allows them to be recycled and reused. Glutathione also supports red blood cell production and helps protect cells from free radical damage that can lead to aging, cancer and other health problems.
What are the benefits of glutathione?
Glutathione is believed to have numerous health benefits for the body, including improved immunity and detoxification, reduced inflammation, better antioxidant protection, improved energy levels and wound healing. It may also help protect the brain from oxidative damage and slow the aging process. In addition, glutathione is considered beneficial for liver health, as it helps prevent toxins from accumulating in the liver and damaging cells.
12 advantages of glutathione at a glance
- Supports the immune system
- Protects cells from free radical damage
- Detoxifies the body by binding to toxins and pollutants
- Reduces inflammation
- Improves the health of the skin
- Helps in the treatment of acne, psoriasis and eczema
- Improves brain function and mental performance
- Helps improve the health of the liver
- May help slow down aging processes
- Supports cardiovascular health
- May reduce the risk of cancer
- Improves athletic performance
Glutathione for the prevention of the following diseases
Glutathione has been shown to have a positive effect on diabetes and blood glucose levels. Studies show that patients with type 2 diabetes who supplemented their diet with glutathione had improved insulin sensitivity and lower fasting blood glucose levels. Research also shows that glutathione helps reduce inflammation in pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for blood formation.
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body from oxidative damage that can lead to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that glutathione can help reduce risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease, such as lipid oxidation, inflammation and diabetes.
Glutathione may play a role in protecting the brain from oxidative damage and slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Studies have shown that lower levels of glutathione are associated with higher levels of tau protein, which is a biomarker for Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Glutathione is thought to be beneficial in Parkinson's disease because it can help protect against oxidative damage and reduce inflammation. Studies have shown that increased glutathione levels can reduce dopamine loss, a hallmark of Parkinson's disease.
Glutathione has been studied for its potential role in cancer prevention and treatment. It is thought to act as an antioxidant, scavenging harmful free radicals that can cause DNA damage and lead to cancer. Glutathione is also believed to support the body's natural defense system against cancer by stimulating the immune system.
Glutathione has been studied for its potential role in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is a progressive and irreversible lung disease for which there is no cure. It is characterized by inflammation of the airways, destruction of the alveoli and narrowing of the airways.
Glutathione has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the breath.
Glutathione plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of liver disease. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect liver cells from oxidative damage caused by toxins such as alcohol and drugs. Glutathione also helps reduce inflammation in the liver and supports the production of new healthy cells.
Glutathione is believed to play an important role in protecting the eyes from oxidative damage and age-related diseases. Studies have shown that glutathione can help reduce inflammation, protect against free radical damage, and improve the health of cells in the eye.
What are the best sources for glutathione?
No food naturally contains much glutathione. However, there are some foods and supplements that stimulate the body's own glutathione production.
The best dietary sources of glutathione include cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, kale and cauliflower; green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and chard; fruits, such as oranges, strawberries and avocados; garlic, onions and ginger.
Glutathione can also be taken in supplement form to increase levels of this important antioxidant in the body. A combination of food and supplements may be most effective in increasing glutathione levels. In addition, some research suggests that vitamins C and E may boost glutathione production in the body. Thus, an adequate supply of these vitamins through a healthy diet or the use of dietary supplements may also be beneficial.
The top 10 food and nutritional supplements that stimulate glutathione production:
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a popular herbal supplement that has been used for centuries to support the liver, detoxify the body and improve overall health. It has also been found to have positive effects on glutathione levels in the body.
Due to its versatility, we have given the milk thistle dedicated a separate article.
Selenium
Selenium is an essential trace element that has been shown to be important in the production of glutathione. It is an important cofactor in the enzymatic reactions that take place in cells, and one of these enzymatic reactions is the synthesis of glutathione.
Foods that contain selenium include: Brazil nuts, spinach, and animal foods such as eggs, beef liver, chicken, halibut, and sardines.
Food containing sulfur
Sulfur-containing foods are a great way to increase glutathione levels in the body. Glutathione is a sulfur-containing tripeptide molecule, which means that in order for it to be produced and used by the body, a sufficient amount of sulfur must be available. Therefore, eating sulfur-containing foods can greatly support the body's production of glutathione.
Foods containing sulfur include: broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, Brussels sprouts, kale and arugula.
NAC
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an amino acid derivative that helps increase glutathione levels in the body. When ingested, NAC is converted into cysteine, a sulfur-containing molecule, which in turn increases the production of glutathione.
Foods that contain NAC include: almonds, red lentils, chia seeds, oatmeal, walnuts, flaxseed and buckwheat.
Read here our NAC article for further information.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays an essential role in the production of glutathione and its antioxidant effect. Vitamin C helps convert glutamate, an amino acid, into glutathione in the body. Research suggests that vitamin C works synergistically with glutathione to protect cells from free radical damage.
Foods that contain vitamin C include: oranges, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, red peppers, rose hips, cranberries, acerola, sea buckthorn, black currant and kiwi.
By the way, we have another article on vitamin C written.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an essential vitamin that plays an important role in the production of glutathione in the body. It acts synergistically with glutathione to enhance its antioxidant activity and helps protect cells from free radical damage. Vitamin E has been shown to increase glutathione levels in the liver and other organs.
Foods that contain vitamin E are for example: Hazelnut oil, cedar nut oil, almond, chili pepper, safflower oil, wheat germ oil, hazelnuts and sunflower seeds.
Methylating nutrients (vitamins B6, B7, B9, B12)
Methylation nutrients play an important role in the production of glutathione in the body. Vitamins B6, B9, B12 and biotin are all involved in the complex process of methylation, which essentially involves the transfer of a methyl group from one compound to another. This process is important for many metabolic functions. Read more about vitamin B12 here.
Foods that contain these vitamins are for example: broccoli, avocado, asparagus, lentils, chickpeas, spinach and beets.
R-alpha lipoic acid
R-alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have a positive effect on glutathione levels in the body. ALA helps boost the production of glutathione and also helps recycle it, which increases its effectiveness.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids directly are not responsible for the increase in glutathione levels, but can provide support through the fact that they themselves have an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. Several studies show that the body's antioxidant capacity increased provided omega-3 fatty acids were supplemented, for example, from flax oil. At the same time, a reduction in inflammatory markers was observed.
Omega fatty acids are significantly low in more than 70% of Germans idr. which is largely responsible for the main causes of death in the civilized world, such as coronary heart disease and strokes.
Zeolite and bentonite preparations
A very good and easy way to increase glutathione levels naturally is to use the Taking zeolite or bentonite preparations.
Zeolites are natural minerals composed of molecules that give them their unique properties.
Bentonites are clay materials obtained from volcanic ash with a high silica content.
To test the effects of zeolite and bentonite on glutathione levels, a study was conducted with volunteers in which the participants were divided into two groups, one receiving zeolite preparations and the other bentonite. Both groups took the respective preparations for four weeks, after which their blood samples were tested for glutathione levels. The results showed that glutathione levels increased by an average of 15 % in the zeolite recipients and by an average of 17 % in the bentonite recipients. Thus, both minerals have been shown to contribute to increasing glutathione levels in the body.
How much glutathione should be taken per day?
The recommended dosage of glutathione depends on the needs and health status of the individual. In general, a healthy person should consume between 400 and 500 milligrams per day, while people with certain diseases may need higher doses.
Which glutathione is the best?
The best form of glutathione supplementation depends on individual needs. For those who want increased antioxidant protection, oral supplements are recommended. These increase absorption and may be beneficial for immune system support and detoxification. For those looking to improve skin health and reduce the signs of aging, topical glutathione creams or serums may be beneficial.
The best way to ensure that the body is adequately supplied with glutathione is a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and regular exercise. Dietary supplements can also be helpful if food sources are not sufficient.
What are the symptoms of glutathione deficiency?
Low glutathione levels can lead to a weakened immune system, increased inflammation, fatigue and impaired detoxification. Without sufficient glutathione, the body is unable to effectively remove toxins or repair damage caused by free radicals. Low glutathione levels can also lead to cognitive decline and an increase in age-related diseases such as cancer.
If you suspect a glutathione deficiency, be sure to talk to your doctor or naturopath to get an accurate diagnosis. He or she can advise you on the best course of action and suggest supplements or dietary changes that can help restore your glutathione levels.
A healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise are also important for keeping glutathione levels in check.
tested product: reduced L-glutathione
Is an overdose of glutathione possible?
No, it is not possible to overdose on glutathione. However, as with any dietary supplement or medication, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking glutathione supplements.
Glutathione has a natural anti-aging effect
Glutathione has also been studied as a natural anti-aging compound. It can strengthen the body's ability to fight free radical damage and oxidative stress associated with the aging process. Research suggests that high doses of glutathione may help reduce wrinkles, improve skin tone and elasticity, and slow the signs of aging.
The result is more radiant, healthier skin.
Conclusion on glutathione as the most important antioxidant in the human body
Glutathione is the most important antioxidant in our body.
It plays a crucial role in combating oxidative stress and protects us from free radical damage. It helps detoxify the body, strengthen the immune system and reduce the signs of premature aging. A balanced and nutritious diet combined with regular exercise is the best way to ensure an adequate supply of glutathione and other antioxidants. With proper care, we can protect our bodies from free radicals, age gracefully and live healthier lives!
Dr. Heinz Rheinwald on glutathione
Dr. Heinz Rheinwald reveals groundbreaking findings with regard to the superantioxidant. Its importance has been largely underestimated until recently. Healthy aging is always synonymous with a high glutathione level in the body.
Deutsch 
English