Glutathione is an antioxidant naturally found in human cells that neutralizes free radicals, boosts the immune system and detoxifies the body. It can also cause skin lightening by converting melanin to a lighter color and deactivating the enzyme tyrosinase, which helps produce the pigment.
Glutathione is an antioxidant produced in cells. It’s comprised largely of three amino acids: glutamine, glycine, and cysteine. Glutathione levels in the body may be reduced by a number of factors, including poor nutrition, environmental toxins, and stress. Its levels also decline with age. Bleaching creams, though popular for decades, come with a host of dangers, including chemical burns and mercury poisoning. Glutathione is promoted as a safe alternative, but there’s no clear evidence to support that claim.
Most experts say there haven’t been reports of serious side effects.
In addition to being produced naturally by the body, glutathione can be given intravenously, topically, or as an inhalant. It’s also available as an oral supplement in capsule and liquid form. However, oral ingestion of glutathione may not be as effective trusted Source as intravenous delivery for some conditions.
Glutathione benefits
Reduces oxidative stress
Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to fight them off. Too-high levels of oxidative stress may be a precursor to multiple diseases. These include diabetes, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis. Glutathione helps stave off the impact of oxidative stress, which may, in turn, reduce disease.
May improve psoriasis
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.
Improves insulin resistance in older individuals :
As people age, they produce less glutathione.. Increases mobility for people with peripheral artery disease: Peripheral artery disease occurs when the peripheral arteries become clogged by plaque. It most commonly happens in the legs.
Reduces symptoms of Parkinson’s disease:
Parkinson’s disease affects the central nervous system and is defined by symptoms such as tremors. It currently has no cure.
May help fight against autoimmune disease:
The chronic inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases can increase oxidative stress. These diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, and lupus. Autoimmune diseases attack the mitochondria in specific cells. Glutathione works to protect cell mitochondria by eliminating free radicals.
May reduce the impact of uncontrolled diabetes:
Long-term high blood sugar is associated with reduced amounts of glutathione. This can lead to oxidative stress and tissue damage.
May reduce respiratory disease symptoms:
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.
Glutathione is found in some foods, although cooking and pasteurization diminish its levels significantly. Its highest concentrations are in:
- raw or very rare meat
- unpasteurized milk and other unpasteurized dairy products
- freshly-picked fruits and vegetables, such as avocado, and asparagus.
Forms
Glutathione contains sulfur molecules, which may be why foods high in sulfur help to boost its natural production in the body. These foods include:
- cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and bok choy
- allium vegetables, such as garlic and onions
- eggs
- nuts
- legumes
- lean protein, such as fish, and chicken
Other foods and herbs that help to naturally boost glutathione levels include:
- milk thistle
- flaxseed
- guso seaweed
- whey
Glutathione is also negatively affected by insomnia. Getting enough rest on a regular basis can help increase levels.
SET UP YOUR CONSULTATION
A major advantage of IV vitamin therapy is that it can be tailored to your needs and taken at your discretion. You can simply schedule an appointment and be back on your feet in no time. To find out more, contact Laser Med Spa and set up your informative consultation.