S-Acetyl-L-Glutathione (SAG)
S-acetyl-L-glutathione is a stabilized and more bioavailable form of glutathione, one of the most powerful endogenous antioxidants in the body. Unlike regular glutathione, which is rapidly destroyed in the gastrointestinal tract and poorly penetrates cells, the S-acetyl form has increased stability and effectiveness.
1. What is glutathione and why is it needed?
Glutathione (GSH) – 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.:
- Glutamic Acid
- Cysteine (key component, contains sulfur)
- 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.
Functions of Glutathione:
✅ Antioxidant protection – neutralizes free radicals, protects cells from oxidative stress.
Detoxification -binds and removes heavy metals (mercury, lead), toxins, and drug metabolites.
✅ Immune support -increases the activity of lymphocytes and NK cells.
Восстановление Restoration of other antioxidants -regenerates vitamins C and E.
✅ Liver protection -prevents damage to hepatocytesHepatocytes are the main cells of the liver. They account for 60 to 80% of the mass of the entire organ. These are the main functional units of the liver, involved in a wide range of physiological processes such as nutrient metabolism, protein synthesis, detoxification, and bile secretion. (used for poisoning, alcohol intoxication).
✅ Antiage effects-slows down aging, improves skin condition.
✅ Mitochondrial support -increases energy metabolism in cells.
2. Why is S-Acetyl-L-Glutathione better than normal?
Regular glutathione has low bioavailability (it is destroyed in the gastrointestinal tract, poorly absorbed). The S-acetyl form solves this problem:
Cleavage resistance -The acetyl group protects glutathione from being broken down in the digestive tract.
Лучшее Better penetration into cells – it is easier to overcome membranes, including the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
🔹 Longer-lasting effect -it is metabolized more slowly, providing a prolonged effect.
3. Application of S-acetyl-L-Glutathione
Антиоксид Antioxidant and antiage therapy
- slows down aging, reduces oxidative stress.
- Improves skin condition (lightens pigmentation, increases elasticity).
- Protects the brain from neurodegeneration (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s).
Detox and liver support
- Helps with poisoning, alcohol intoxication.
- It is used for fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
- Binds heavy metals (mercury, cadmium, lead).
Strengthening the immune
- system Increases resistance to viruses and bacteria.
- It is useful for chronic infections (herpes, HPV).
Neurology and mental health
- Can improve cognitive functions (memory, concentration).
- It is used for autism, depression, and anxiety disorders.
Sports medicine
- Accelerates recovery after training.
- Reduces muscle fatigue.
- Protects against overtraining.
4. Dosages and methods of administration
📌 Standard dose: 100-600 mg / day (divided into 1-2 doses).
📌 For detoxification / liver support: 300-600 mg / day.
📌 For neurological disorders: up to 1000 mg / day.
Release forms:
- Capsules/tablets (taken orally).
- Liposomal glutathione (even higher bioavailability).
- Injections (rarely, usually in clinics).
Best reception time:
- In the morning on an empty stomach (for better absorption).
- Before going to bed (enhances recovery).
5. Side effects and safety
of S-Acetyl-L-glutathione well-tolerated, but possible:
- Mild gastrointestinal disorders (bloating, diarrhea at high doses).
- Headache (rarely, at the first dose).
- Allergic reactions (extremely rare).
Contraindications:
- Pregnancy and lactation (insufficient data).
- Individual intolerance.
6. Comparison with other forms of Glutathione
| Form of Glutathione | Bioavailability | Stability | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal (reduced) GSH | Low | Rapidly degradable | Injections, liposomal forms |
| Liposomal Glutathione | High | Good | Oral |
| S-Acetyl-L-Glutathione (SAG) | Very High | Excellent | Best Choice for long |
| -term N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)therapy | GSH Precursor | Average | Glutathione Synthesis Support |
7.
S-Acetyl-L-glutathione is one of the most effective forms of glutathione for:
✔ Anti-oxidant protection
✔ Detoxification
System✔ Liver and immune support
✔ Improves cognitive function
It is superior to regular glutathione in bioavailability and stability, making it an excellent choice for long-term use.
Recommendation: Start with 100-200 mg / day, gradually increasing the dose if necessary. For maximum effect, it can be combined with NAC (N-acetylcysteine) and vitamin C.