Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant that plays a crucial role in numerous bodily processes. It is made up of three amino acids: glutamic acid, glycine, and cysteine. Glutathione (GSH) is found in every cell in the body and is essential for optimal health.
In this article, we will discuss the history of glutathione, its nutritional profile, its 7 surprising health benefits, how to take it, top recipes with glutathione-rich foods, the risks of consuming GSH, and how it compares to other antioxidants.
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Glutathione Summary
| Nutrient name: | Glutathione |
| Nutrient picture: | NONE |
| Origin: | Beef skeletal muscle and liver, fish skeletal muscle, lamb small intestine, and sheep brain |
| Other names: | Gamma-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinylglycine, GSH, L-glutathione, N-(N-L-gamma-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl) glycine. |
| Supplements that contain this nutrient: | LivPure supplement for MAXIMUM weight loss and liver support, MetamorphX supplement for weight loss. |
| Main benefits: | Supports Liver Function, Promotes Weight Loss, Enhances Skin Health, Boosts Immune Function, Reduces Oxidative Stress, Improves Insulin Sensitivity, Protects Against Toxin Exposure. |
| Related nutrients: | Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Coenzyme Q10. |
| Recipes with this nutrient: | Lentil Soup, Sunflower Seed Basil Pesto, Whole-Wheat Pasta with Spinach and Beans. |
What Is Glutathione?
Glutathione is a tripeptide molecule that is produced naturally in the body. It is composed of three amino acids: glutamic acid, glycine, and cysteine. GSH is found in every cell in the body and is essential for optimal health and general well-being.
In addition, Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. It also plays a crucial role in many other bodily processes, including immune function, detoxification, and cellular metabolism.
The History of Glutathione
The discovery of glutathione dates back to the late nineteenth century. It was first isolated and identified by J. de Rey-Pailhade, a French chemist, in 1888. However, it was not until the 1920s and 1930s that researchers began to uncover the many functions of GSH in the body.
Today, glutathione is recognized as one of the most important antioxidants in the body, and its many health benefits are widely studied and documented.
Glutathione Nutritional Profile
Glutathione is not found in significant amounts in most foods, and the body’s ability to produce it can be limited by various factors, including age, stress, and illness. However, there are some foods that contain compounds that can help to boost GSH levels in the body. These include:
Almonds
Tumeric
Baru almonds
Milk Thistle
Avocado
Okra
Green asparagus
Broccoli
Source: Longevity Technology
While these foods do not contain high levels of GSH itself, they do contain compounds that can help to boost the body’s Glutathione production.
The 7 Surprising Glutathione Health Benefits Your Body Needs
Supports Liver Function
Glutathione plays a crucial role in liver function and detoxification. The liver is responsible for filtering toxins and other harmful substances from the bloodstream, and the GSH compound further helps to protect liver cells from damage caused by these toxins.
Studies have further demonstrated that supplementation of this compound can help to improve liver function in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and other liver conditions. This emphasizes the importance of this compound to not just liver health, but to the overall wellbeing of the human body.
If you want a supplement that is focused on supporting your liver and has Glutathione, then LivPure is what you need.
Promotes Weight Loss
Glutathione has been shown to help with weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation in the body. Insulin resistance is a common cause of weight gain and obesity, and GSH supplementation has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, leading to better blood sugar control and weight loss. Research has demonstrated how reduced GSH has anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting ACE activity, decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and reducing NF-kB activation.
In addition, there is a leaked research by Dan Saunders showed that compromised liver function has been linked to weight problems. And LivPure is the product to fix that which helps in both supporting liver function and leading to massive weight loss.
Enhances Skin Health
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. GSH supplementation can help to improve skin health by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin elasticity, and reducing hyperpigmentation. A study found that individuals who were administered GSH showed a notable decrease in wrinkles as compared to those who were given a placebo.
I noticed my skin becoming much more hydrated, radiant, and glowing since I started taking a daily supplement of this compound. This is likely due to the antioxidant properties that help to reduce oxidative damage and stress on the cells.
Boosts Immune Function
Glutathione plays a crucial role in immune function, helping to protect the body against infections and other harmful substances. Studies have further shown that GSH supplementation can help to improve immune function in people with certain conditions, including autism spectrum disorders, cystic fibrosis, and peripheral artery disease.
Reduces Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress is a condition that occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and DNA, leading to a variety of health problems.
However, GSH is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Studies have shown that GSH supplementation can help to reduce oxidative stress markers in the body.
Improves Insulin Sensitivity
Insulin resistance is a common cause of weight gain and obesity, as well as other health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Research shows that oral GSH supplementation has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, leading to better blood sugar control and reduced risk of insulin resistance.
Protects Against Toxin Exposure
Glutathione plays a crucial role in detoxification, helping to protect the body against environmental toxins and other harmful substances. Studies have shown that GSH supplementation can help to protect against toxin exposure and reduce levels of lipid peroxides in the body.
How To Take Glutathione?
There are several ways to take glutathione, including oral supplements, injections, liposomal glutathione, inhaled glutathione, and intravenous infusion.
Oral Supplements
Oral glutathione supplements are available in capsule or tablet form and can be taken with or without food. However, studies have shown that orally administered GSH is poorly absorbed by the body and may not be effective in increasing GSH levels.
Injections
Glutathione injections are administered directly into the muscle or vein and are often used in clinical settings to treat certain conditions.
Liposomal Glutathione
Liposomal glutathione is a form of GSH that is encapsulated in liposomes, which are small lipid particles that improve absorption and bioavailability.
Inhaled Glutathione
Inhaled glutathione is a form of GSH that is delivered directly to the lungs through a nebulizer. This method of delivery is often used to treat respiratory conditions.
Intravenous Infusion
Intravenous glutathione infusion involves the administration of GSH directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous catheter. This method is often used in clinical settings to treat certain conditions.
Top 3 Recipes With Glutathione-Rich Foods
Spinach-Avocado Spinach Smoothie
Ingredients:
1 cup nonfat plain yogurt
1 cup fresh spinach
1 frozen banana
¼ avocado
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
In a blender, blend together yogurt, spinach, banana, avocado, water, and honey until smooth.
Source: Eating Well
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Ingredients:
For Salmon:
2 lb salmon fillet
Kosher salt
Extra virgin olive oil
½ lemon, sliced into rounds
Parsley for garnish
For Lemon-Garlic Sauce:
Zest 1 large lemon
Juice of 2 lemons
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
5 garlic cloves, chopped
2 tsp dry oregano
1 tsp sweet paprika
½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and spices in a small bowl or jar.
To prepare the salmon, first line a baking sheet with a large piece of foil. The foil should be big enough to wrap around the salmon. Brush the top of the foil with extra virgin olive oil. Then, pat the salmon dry and season it with kosher salt. Finally, place the seasoned salmon on the prepared pan.
Even pour the tasty lemon-garlic sauce over the salmon. Don’t forget to add lemon slices since they go well with salmon. Next, wrap the foil over the salmon and fold it to secure it shut at the top.
To bake salmon wrapped in foil, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Depending on the thickness of your salmon (1 ½ inches or thicker), bake for approximately 15 minutes or until fully cooked.
Take it out of the oven, remove the cover, and place it under the broiler for a few minutes.
Source: Mediterranean Dish
Asparagus and Quinoa Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup uncooked quinoa
1 pound asparagus trimmed
2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
2 cloves garlic crushed
1-15 ounce can chickpeas drained and rinsed
1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions (about 3 scallions)
2.5 ounces of feta cheese crumbled
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh mint, parsley, or cilantro
Instructions:
Asparagus
To prepare the asparagus, first, preheat the oven to 425ºF. Then, place the asparagus on a rimmed baking sheet and toss it with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and season it with salt and pepper.
To cook the asparagus, put it in the oven and bake for 8-12 minutes until it is tender. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the asparagus.
Cut the stem into 1-inch pieces and keep it aside.
Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa in a fine-meshed strainer under cold water for 30 seconds, then drain thoroughly.
Combine 2 cups of water and quinoa in a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil on medium-high heat. Then lower the heat to allow for a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for approximately 15 minutes, until the quinoa has absorbed all of the water. After that, cover the saucepan and set it aside.
Together
Whisk together the lemon juice, garlic, and remaining olive oil in a large bowl. Add salt and pepper to season.
Gently mix the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, scallions, and asparagus with the dressing in a bowl.
Place the mixture into a bowl for serving, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs on top if desired. Taste and add more seasonings as needed, then enjoy.
Source: Clean and Delicious
Vegan Brazil Nut Pesto Recipe
Ingredients:
1/2 cup raw Brazil nuts soaked
3 packed cups of fresh basil
1/3 packed cup parsley
2 big garlic cloves
2 tbsp nutritional yeast
1.25 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
the juice of half a large lemon
4 tbsp water
Instructions:
After soaking, remove the Brazil nuts from the water and put them along with the other ingredients in a blender.
Blend the ingredients until they are mostly smooth, but still have some texture. Taste and adjust by adding more lemon and salt if desired.
Source: Nikki Vegan
Top 3 Glutathione Supplements for Overall Health Benefits
Here are some of the top GSH supplements that are worth considering to help provide overall health benefits:
NOW Supplements, Glutathione 500 mg, With Milk Thistle Extract & Alpha Lipoic Acid
The NOW Supplements, Glutathione 500 mg is vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions. It contains 500mg of reduced GSH per capsule and helps support a healthy immune system.
NOW Supplements, Glutathione 500 mg Main Benefits:
100% Vegan Supplement: This product does not contain soy, GMOs, nuts, gluten, dairy, or eggs. It is suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and those who follow a kosher diet.
Quality Assured: The manufacturing process at NOW has been thoroughly evaluated, including our laboratory and testing procedures for stability, potency, and product formulation. This evaluation has resulted in us receiving the NPA A-rated GMP certification.
High Quality: This product has been manufactured in the United States with stringent quality control standards. Only premium ingredients, with no fillers or binders, were used in the manufacturing of this product.
NOW Supplements, Glutathione 500 mg Price:
At $21.48, you are certain of taking Milk Thistle Extract and Alpha Lipoic Acid along with your GSH supplement in the correct combination.
Pure Encapsulations Liposomal Glutathione Supplement
The company Pure Encapsulations was founded with the intention of promoting wellness and well-being. One of their products, Pure Liposomal Glutathione, specifically aids in liver health and detoxification.
Pure Encapsulations Liposomal Glutathione Supplement Main Benefits:
Quick Absorption: This product provides GSH, a vital antioxidant, in a liposomal form that enhances its absorption.
High Quality: These supplements are produced using high-quality ingredients from reliable suppliers as recommended by nutritional experts. They undergo thorough manufacturing and testing procedures to ensure their effectiveness and safety.
Provides Anti-oxidants: The purpose of Liposomal GSH is to protect and support cellular function by providing an antioxidant formula.
Pure Encapsulations Liposomal Glutathione Supplement Price:
At $60.30, you get a highly reliable GSH supplement that provides significant antioxidant effects and protection.
Ultra High Strength Glutathione Capsules – 1000mg Concentrated Formula
The Ultra High Strength Glutathione supplement is a potent and effective formula that supports the body’s natural ability to detoxify and maintain healthy glutathione levels. It is specially formulated to increase bioavailability, so it can be easily absorbed into the body.
Ultra High Strength Glutathione Capsules Main Benefits:
High Potency: This supplement contains a high concentration of GSH in each capsule, making it one of the most potent and effective products available.
Clinically Tested: This product undergoes testing by the company and a third-party laboratory to ensure that each batch contains the appropriate standardized level of purity and active ingredients.
Non-GMO Fermentation: This GSH product undergoes a fermentation process to achieve stability and then a distillation process which includes fermentation, centrifugation, cell extraction, filtration, and crystallization to attain purity. Due to its high level of purity, this Glutathione is highly bioavailable.
Ultra High Strength Glutathione Capsules Price:
At $31.97, you get a highly potent and effective formula that helps to support your body’s natural ability to detoxify. It is also Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan friendly for those with dietary restrictions.
Risks of Consuming Glutathione
Glutathione is generally considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses.
However, some people may experience side effects, including:
Headache
Nausea
Stomach upset
Diarrhea
People with certain medical conditions, including asthma, should consult with a healthcare provider before taking these supplements.
Glutathione vs. Other Antioxidants
Glutathione is just one of many antioxidants that are important for optimal health. Here’s how it compares to other popular antioxidants:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is another powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from oxidative damage and stress. Like glutathione, vitamin C is not produced by the body and must be obtained through dietary sources or supplements.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps to protect cell membranes from damage caused by free radicals, just like GSH does. It is found in many foods, including nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Just like GSH, this compound also plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism and energy production.
Glutathione: Conclusion
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in many bodily processes. It has numerous health benefits, including supporting liver function, promoting weight loss, enhancing skin health, boosting immune function, reducing oxidative stress, improving insulin sensitivity, and protecting against toxin exposure.
While there are several ways to take this supplement, including oral glutathione supplementation, injections, liposomal glutathione, inhaled glutathione, and intravenous infusion, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any dietary supplement regimen.
If you are looking for a way to support your body’s natural ability to detoxify and maintain healthy levels of this compound, try Ultra High Strength Glutathione Capsules. This product is clinically tested and offers high potency with each capsule containing 1000mg of GSH. Get the most out of your health goals today and order yours today!
FAQs About Glutathione
What does glutathione do for the body?
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in many bodily processes, including immune function, detoxification, and cellular metabolism. It helps to protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
Is taking glutathione every day good?
Yes, you may take GSH every day. However, keep in mind that Glutathione is only safe when taken in recommended doses. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any dietary supplement regimen.
Does glutathione have side effects?
Some people may experience side effects when taking glutathione, including headache, nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea. People with certain medical conditions, including asthma, should consult with a healthcare provider before taking GSH supplements. Additionally, it is important to purchase products from reputable sources and check for quality assurance testing by the company and third-party laboratories.
What should I avoid while taking glutathione?
There are no known interactions between GSH supplements and other medications or supplements. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any dietary supplement regimen.
What happens if I take glutathione every day?
Taking GSH every day is generally safe for most people when taken in recommended doses. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any dietary supplement regimen.
What are the side effects of glutathione?
Some people may experience side effects when taking glutathione, including headache, nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea. People with certain medical conditions, including asthma, should consult with a healthcare provider before taking GSH supplements.
Can glutathione reduce belly fat?
Glutathione has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can lead to better blood sugar control and weight loss. However, more research is needed to determine its effects on belly fat specifically.
What does glutathione do to your skin?
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. It has been shown to improve skin health by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin elasticity, and reducing hyperpigmentation.