Glutathione-description, sources, application

Glutathione is one of the most important antioxidants in the body, playing a key role in protecting cells from oxidative stress, detoxifying and maintaining overall health. Here’s a detailed review:

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1. Main Features

• Chemical structure: A tripeptide consisting of three amino acidsAmino acids are the fundamental building blocks of proteins and play a key role in biological processes. There are a total of 22 standard amino acids used for protein synthesis in living organisms. — glutamine, cysteine and glycineGlycine is an amino acid that regulates metabolic processes in the central nervous system. It belongs to neurotransmitters (participates in the transmission of nerve impulses). Glycine is a key component of collagen, which gives structure to bones, muscles, connective tissues, and skin. It also participates in the transmission of nerve impulses, increasing the efficiency of information transfer between neurons..
• Forms:
  • Reduced Glutathione (GSH) – active form.
  • Oxidized Glutathione (GSSG) – inactive form (two GSH molecules connected by a disulfide bond).
• Synthesis: Produced in the liver, but also present in all cells of the body.

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2. Biological functions

a. Antioxidant protection

• Neutralizes free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), protecting cells from damage.
• Restores other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E.

b. Detoxification

• Binds toxins, heavy metals (such as mercury, lead) and carcinogens, facilitating their elimination through the liver and kidneys.
• It is involved in the work of detoxification enzymesEnzymes are proteins that accelerate chemical reactions in the body. They ensure the occurrence of metabolic processes such as food digestion, energy release, cell formation, and many others. (for example, glutathione-S-transferase).

c. The immune system

• Supports the function of immune cells (such as lymphocytes).
• Regulates inflammatory processes.

d. Regeneration and restoration

• Participates in the synthesis and repair of DNA.
• Promotes wound healing and tissue repair.

e. Metabolism

• It is involved in the transport of amino acids across cell membranes.
• Supports the function of mitochondria (energy stations of the cell).

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3. Sources of glutathione

a. Synthesis in the body

• For the production of glutathione, you need:
  • Cysteine (limiting factor).
  • Glutamine and glycine.
  • B vitamins (B6, B9, B12), selenium and magnesium (cofactors).

b. Food sources

• Sulfur-rich foods: garlic, onions, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale.
• Protein products: meat, fish, eggs.
• Fruits and vegetables: avocado, asparagus, spinach, grapefruit.
• Nuts and seeds: walnuts, sunflower seeds.

c. Supplements

• Glutathione: in the form of capsules, tablets, injections.
• Precursors: N-acetylcysteine (NAC), alpha-lipoic acid, selenium.
• Liposomal glutathione: better absorbed.

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4. Application in medicine

a. Liver protection

• It is used in the treatment of liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease).
• Helps with poisoning (alcohol, medications, toxins).

b. Immune support

• It is used for chronic infections (for example, HIV).
• Improves the condition of autoimmune diseases.

c. Antiage therapy

• Slows down the aging of cells, protecting them from oxidative stress.
• Improves skin condition (used in cosmetology).

d. Neurological diseases

• It is being investigated in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
• Protects neurons from damage.

e. Oncology

• Supports the body during chemo and radiotherapy.
• It is being researched as a cancer prevention tool.

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5. Glutathione deficiency

Reasons:

• Chronic diseases (diabetes, HIV, cancer).
• Lack of nutrients (cysteine, selenium).
• Age-related decline in synthesis.
• Exposure to toxins (smoking, alcohol, environmental pollution).

Symptoms:

• Chronic fatigue.
• Frequent infections.
• Liver problems.
• Accelerated aging.

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6. Side effects and contraindications

• Side effects (rare):
  • Allergic reactions.
  • Upset stomach (when taking supplements).
  • Reduced zinc levels (with prolonged use).
• Contraindications:
  • Pregnancy and lactation (requires a doctor’s consultation).
  • Individual intolerance.

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7. How to Boost your Glutathione levels

• Nutrition: Eat foods rich in sulfur, cysteine, and selenium.
• Supplements: NAC, alpha-lipoic acid, selenium, glutathione.
• Lifestyle:
  • Avoid toxins (smoking, alcohol, polluted air).
  • Exercise regularly (moderate exercise increases your glutathione levels).
  • Get enough sleep and avoid stress.