Glutathione is a protein made up of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. It is produced within the cells throughout the body through enzymatic reactions that utilize these amino acids.
First discovered by J. de Rey-Paihade in 1888, glutathione was initially extracted from yeast, animal tissues such as beef liver, fish, lamb intestine, and sheep brain. It is often referred to as the “master antioxidant” due to its critical role in detoxification and protection against oxidative stress.
Functions of Glutathione:
Glutathione is primarily produced in the liver and is excreted through the kidneys. Its key functions include:
Fighting toxins and protecting against oxidative stress.
Defending the body from mercury, toxic metals, alcohol, and persistent organic pollutants.
Supporting the transport of toxins through four different mechanisms, including the formation of glutathione S-conjugates.
Low levels of glutathione are linked to chronic exposure to toxins such as alcohol and cadmium, and are associated with conditions like AIDS/HIV, macular degeneration, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders. Deficiency can also lead to red blood cell breakdown, gallstones, an enlarged spleen, and, if untreated, mental deterioration.
Studies show that people with AIDS tend to have lower levels of glutathione. Research on cystic fibrosis patients has also revealed that low glutathione levels can lead to intestinal inflammation, malabsorption of nutrients, pain, weight loss, and growth failure. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition demonstrated that glutathione supplementation, administered three times daily with meals, reduced intestinal inflammation and improved growth in children with cystic fibrosis.
Medical Insights:
According to Dr. Robert Ashley, Assistant Professor of Medicine at UCLA, glutathione has shown benefits for patients with cystic fibrosis and AIDS who suffer from low glutathione levels in the intestines. He also suggests that glutathione may help with intestinal inflammation in conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. However, Dr. Ashley does not recommend glutathione supplementation for healthy individuals, as the body typically produces enough of this important antioxidant.
Research suggests that oral glutathione supplements are not well absorbed due to the absence of certain enzymatic components necessary for intestinal absorption. The human gastrointestinal tract contains an enzyme called gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), which recycles glutathione precursors, thereby inhibiting glutathione absorption when taken orally.
However, intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous, and dermal applications of glutathione bypass the intestinal absorption process and have been shown to increase glutathione levels in the body.
Boosting Glutathione Naturally:
In addition to supplementation, certain foods can help boost glutathione levels. These include:
Fresh and frozen vegetables such as asparagus, avocados, broccoli, and spinach.
Garlic, walnuts, and unprocessed meats like fish.
Whey protein, though individuals with dairy sensitivity should avoid it.
Those with conditions such as diabetes, HIV, low sperm count, respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary fibrosis, liver disease, and cancer may benefit from glutathione supplementation under medical supervision. Other supplements like vitamin C, alpha-lipoic acid, glutamine, vitamin B6, selenium, and riboflavin are necessary for the production of glutathione.
A small study involving eight patients with colon cancer showed that glutathione may possess anticancer properties, though further research is needed to substantiate this finding.
Conclusion:
Glutathione plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's defense against toxins and oxidative stress. While its therapeutic use is beneficial in certain medical conditions, oral supplementation may not be as effective due to poor absorption. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before adding glutathione or any other supplements to your regimen.
References:
Nature: "Mechanisms of Glutathione in Disease Modulation"
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41419-023-05645-yUCLA Health: "Ask the Doctors: What Do Glutathione Supplements Do?"
https://www.uclahealth.org/news/ask-the-doctors-what-do-glutathione-supplements-doNutritional Supplements. (Page 531)
Dr. Ashraf Girgis, N.D.
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