The Truth About Glutathione

From the Desk of Dr. Leisha April 11, 2024

Glutathione

Glutathione is a substance made from the amino acids, glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid. It is produced by the liver and involved in many body processes. Glutathione is involved in tissue building and repair, making chemicals and proteins needed in the body, and in immune system function. Glutathione production is directly related to quality sleep. If you are not getting good sleep, your glutathione levels become deficient.

1. Antioxidant Support:

Glutathione is a powerful endogenous antioxidant crucial for neutralizing free radicals and oxidative stress. Oral glutathione supplementation is explored as a means to augment the body’s antioxidant defenses, potentially mitigating oxidative damage.

2. Cellular Detoxification:

 Glutathione plays a central role in cellular detoxification by aiding in the removal of harmful substances, including environmental toxins and medications. Oral glutathione is considered a potential support for the body’s natural detoxification processes. Reduces cell damage in alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease Cell death in the liver may be exacerbated by a deficiency in antioxidants, including glutathione. This can lead to fatty liver disease in both those who misuse alcohol and those who don’t. Glutathione has been shown to improve protein, enzyme, and bilirubin levels in the blood of individuals with alcoholic and nonalcoholic chronic fatty liver disease.

Research shows that glutathione was most effective when given to people with fatty liver disease intravenously, in high doses. Participants in the study also showed reductions in malondialdehyde, a marker of cell damage in the liver.

Another small study found that orally administered glutathione had positive effects on people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease following proactive lifestyle changes. In this study, glutathione was provided in supplement form in a dose of 300 milligrams per day for four months.

3. Immune System Modulation:

Glutathione is involved in immune system regulation, supporting the proper functioning of immune cells. The chronic inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases can increase oxidative stress. These diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, and lupus.

Research shows that glutathione helps reduce oxidative stress by either stimulating or reducing the body’s immunological response. Autoimmune diseases attack the mitochondria in specific cells. Glutathione works to protect cell mitochondria by eliminating free radicals. 

4. Skin Health and Aging:

 Some studies suggest a connection between glutathione levels and skin health. Oral glutathione has been explored for its potential role in promoting skin brightening and reducing the effects of aging, although more research is needed to establish its efficacy in these areas. Topical glutathione has been shown to heal scars and help with acne, rosacea, and psoriasis

As people age, they produce less glutathione. Researchers at Baylor School of

Medicine used a combination of animal and human studies to explore the role of

glutathione in weight management and insulin resistance in older individuals. Study findings indicated that low glutathione levels were associated with less fat burning and higher rates of fat storing in the body.

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

5. Respiratory Health:

 Glutathione is present in the respiratory tract and is implicated in lung health. Oral glutathione supplementation has been investigated as a potential supportive measure for respiratory conditions, including asthma. N-acetylcysteine is a medication used to treat conditions such as asthma and cystic fibrosis. As an inhalant, it helps to thin mucus and make it less paste-like. It also reduces inflammation. N-acetylcysteine is by

product of glutathione. 

6. Considerations for Absorption:

The challenge with oral glutathione supplementation lies in its potential degradation in the digestive tract, limiting absorption. Selecting forms of glutathione that enhance bioavailability, such as liposomal or acetylated versions, may improve its effectiveness.

7. Individual Response Variation:

Responses to oral glutathione supplementation can vary among individuals. Genetic factors, overall health status, and specific health goals may influence the impact of supplementation. Some patients do not make enough glutathione or are rapid metabolizers leading to build up of toxins in the body. These patients may need higher dosages of quality glutathione or IV supplementation

Contact The Wellness Lounge to schedule an appointment for IV glutathione today, to find out more about supplementation or for lab work or a consultation with our concierge medicine provider, Dr. Fowler.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4684116/

https://www.healthline.com/health/glutathione-benefits

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19393193/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7569285/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24155989/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28789631/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2129149/