Written by Vera Coetsee, Health and Nutrition Coach
4 July 2023
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that is naturally produced by the body. It plays a crucial role in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals and other harmful substances. It is found in high concentrations in the liver, where it helps to detoxify harmful substances. Glutathione is also important for maintaining a healthy immune system, as it helps to regulate the activity of white blood cells. Glutathione may also have anti-aging properties and could be beneficial in treating certain health conditions related to ageing.
Protection for the Mitochondria
Mitochondria are the “power plants” of each cell, converting food into energy which is important for our cells. Glutathione makes sure that toxins like heavy metals, organic toxins, and even the actual byproducts of the process of creating energy by the mitochondria themselves don’t damage the mitochondria.
Four of the most critical roles of glutathione includes:
- Ageing defense
- Antioxidant protection
- Detoxification
- Energy production
Where to find glutathione?
Food Sources:
Glutathione can be found in many food sources, especially fruits and vegetables.
- Turmeric, which contains curcumin
- Avocadoes
- Green asparagus
- Almonds
- Broccoli
- Brussel Sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Okra
- Spinach
Supplementation:
While diet is the most natural way to boost glutathione levels, there are a variety of glutathione supplements available. The best option for oral supplementation is taking liposomal glutathione on an empty stomach.
Restore Longevity Test Kit
Our longevity at-home test kit is designed to measure NAD+, reduced glutathione and telomere, which are important markers for your overall well being. Knowing these levels can help provide you with personalised treatment to help improve fatigue, increase cellular energy, and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
If you are interested in increasing your glutathione levels, or testing your levels, make an appointment at our clinic here.
Sources:
Minich, Deanna M., and Benjamin I. Brown. 2019. “A Review of Dietary (Phyto)Nutrients for Glutathione Support” Nutrients 11, no. 9: 2073. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11092073
Forman HJ, Zhang H, Rinna A. Glutathione: overview of its protective roles, measurement, and biosynthesis. Mol Aspects Med. 2009 Feb-Apr;30(1-2):1-12. doi: 10.1016/j.mam.2008.08.006. Epub 2008 Aug 30. PMID: 18796312; PMCID: PMC2696075. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0098299708000617?via%3Dihub