Glutathione
Glutathione (GSH) is a small peptide made up of three amino acids that exists in the cell (mostly in the mitochondria) in two states, reduced Glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG). The ratio between these two forms is an extremely good marker for oxidative stress.
GSH is produced from
SAMe- (S-Adenosyl Methionine)
CoQ10 ( Co-enzyme Q 10)
Functions
Antioxidant function: Glutathione has a large role in countering increases in lipid peroxidation which occurs during oxidative stress. Glutathione is capable of preventing damage to important cellular components caused by reactive oxygen species such as free radicals, peroxides, lipid peroxides, and heavy metals. It is capable of preventing cellular death and neurodegeneration.
Detoxification: GHS is an important participant in phase II reactions of detoxification of xenobiotics (toxic agents such as carcinogens etc.) in the liver. This is where your body gets rid of psychiatric medications.
Anti Inflammatory - Inflammation has been implicated in a variety of psychiatric disorders.
Implications on brain health
As the brain’s most important antioxidant, Glutathione plays a significant role in protection from the harmful effects of oxygen free radicals (reactive oxygen species) by effectively neutralizing them. GHS has been found to be effective in preventing neurodegeneration, thus slow the progression of neurodegenerative disorders. It has also been found to have use in treating mild depression and stress and can alleviate symptoms of autism.
General health benefits
Glutathione has a number of positive effects on the body and improves overall health of person as it . Slows down the aging process in the body. Maintains a healthy liver (an important organ in metabolism and detoxification of medications). Maintains good kidney function (an important organ in excreting remnants of medications). Reduces the risk of occurrences of stroke and heart attacks. Treatment of and prevention of autoimmune conditions
Glutathione supplementation - Foods rich in GSH
Sulphur rich foods such as broccoli, kale, collards, cabbage, cauliflower, watercress, etc and bioactive whey protein. These are a great source of cysteine and the amino acid building blocks for glutathione synthesis.
Methylation Nutrients (Vitamins B6, B9, B12, and biotin) : spinach, avocado, asparagus, roots, beets are all good sources of these. Around ½ cup a day of any of these is a good quantity to take.
Selenium: Selenium works as a powerful anti-oxidant and is required for your body to create GSH. Foods such as fish (halibut, tuna, sardines around 3 oz), Brazil nuts, Grass-fed beef, eggs, spinach (1 cup/day) are all rich in selenium.
Vitamin C & E: Vitamin C helps raise glutathione in red blood cells and lymphocytes. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that works with GSH to prevent damage from reactive oxygen and protects glutathione-dependent enzymes. Oranges, grapefruit another citrus fruits are a good source of Vitamin C while almonds, avocado, olive oil and sunflower seeds are a good source of Vitamin E.
Glutathione supplements:
Reduced GSH: Reduced glutathione is involved in the synthesis and repair of DNA, and enhances the antioxidant activity of vitamin C, transport of amino acids, and detoxification of harmful compounds. In addition, an intracellular abundance of reduced glutathione, as compared to oxidized glutathione, helps ensure healthy cell function. It is especially important for liver function
Liposomal glutathione: Purified phosphatidylcholine delivery system offers natural liposomal formation due to the hydrophobic and hydrophilic nature of phospholipids. Liposomal form protects glutathione bonds from the degradation that can occur during digestion. Also comes in a liquid form
