Benefits of glutathione

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to fight them off. Excessive levels of oxidative stress may be a precursor to a variety of diseases. These include diabetes, cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Glutathione helps avoid the effects of oxidative stress, which in turn can reduce disease.

An article cited in the Journal of Cancer Science and Therapy states that glutathione deficiency leads to increased levels of oxidative stress, which may lead to cancer. It also states that elevated glutathione levels increase cancer cell antioxidant levels and resistance to oxidative stress.

Can improve psoriasis

Studies show that whey protein, when taken orally, can improve psoriasis with or without additional treatment. Whey protein has previously been shown to increase glutathione levels. Study participants took a 20-gram oral supplement daily for three months. Researchers say more research is needed.

Reduce cell damage in alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

A lack of antioxidants, including glutathione, may exacerbate cell death in the liver. This can lead to fatty liver disease in both those who abuse alcohol and those who don't. Glutathione has been shown to improve blood levels of proteins, enzymes and bilirubin in patients with alcoholic and non-alcoholic chronic fatty liver disease.

A study reported that high-dose intravenous glutathione is most effective for patients with fatty liver disease. Participants in the study also showed a decrease in malondialdehyde, a marker of liver cell damage.

Other small studies found that oral glutathione had a positive effect in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease after making aggressive lifestyle changes. In this study, glutathione was provided in supplement form at a dose of 300 mg per day for four months.

Improving insulin resistance in the elderly

As people age, they produce less glutathione. Researchers combined animal and human studies to explore glutathione's role in weight management and insulin resistance in older adults. Research results show that low glutathione levels are associated with less fat burning and a higher rate of fat storage.

Older subjects added cysteine ​​and glycine to their diets to increase glutathione levels, which spiked within two weeks, improving insulin resistance and fat burning.

Increase mobility in patients with peripheral artery disease

Peripheral artery disease occurs when peripheral arteries become clogged with plaque. It most commonly occurs in the legs. One study reported that glutathione improved circulation and improved study participants' ability to walk long distances without pain. Participants who received glutathione instead of a saline placebo received intravenous infusions twice daily for five days and then were analyzed for mobility.

Reducing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease affects the central nervous system and is characterized by symptoms such as tremors. It currently has no cure. An earlier study documented the positive effects of intravenous glutathione on symptoms such as tremor and stiffness. While more research is needed, this case report suggests that glutathione may help reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with this disease.

May help fight autoimmune diseases

Chronic inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases increases oxidative stress. These diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease and lupus. According to research, glutathione helps reduce oxidative stress by stimulating or reducing the body's immune response. Autoimmune diseases attack mitochondria in specific cells. Glutathione protects cell mitochondria by eliminating free radicals.

Can reduce oxidative damage in children with autism

Some studies, including a clinical trial report, suggest that children with autism have higher levels of oxidative damage and lower glutathione levels in the brains. Low. This increases the susceptibility of children with autism to neurological damage caused by substances such as mercury.

An eight-week clinical trial in children aged 3 to 13 years used an oral or transdermal application of glutathione. Changes in autism symptoms were not assessed as part of the study, but children in both groups showed improvements in cysteine, plasma sulfate and whole blood glutathione levels.

Can reduce the effects of uncontrolled diabetes

Chronic hyperglycemia is associated with reduced glutathione levels. This can lead to oxidative stress and tissue damage. One studyfound that dietary supplementation with cysteine ​​and glycine increased glutathione levels. It also reduces oxidative stress and damage in people with uncontrolled diabetes despite high blood sugar levels. Study participants took 0.81 millimoles per kilogram (mmol/kg) of cysteine ​​and 1.33 mmol/kg of glycine daily for two weeks.

Can reduce symptoms of respiratory diseases

N-Acetylcysteine ​​is a drug used to treat conditions such as asthma and cystic fibrosis. As an inhalant, it helps thin mucus and make it less mushy. It also reduces inflammation. N-acetylcysteine ​​is a byproduct of glutathione.

Glutathione is present in some foods, although cooking and pasteurization significantly reduce its levels. Its highest concentration is:

• Raw or very rare meat
• Unpasteurized milk and other unpasteurized dairy products
• Freshly picked fruits and vegetables like avocados and asparagus.