What Is Glutathione?

Glutathione, also known as GSH, is a molecule found naturally in your body. It is produced by the liver and nerve cells in the central nervous system. Glutathione is made up of three amino acids: L-cysteine, glycine, and L-glutamate.

Proponents claim that glutathione supplements can help treat and prevent a number of health conditions, from heart disease to Alzheimer's disease.

This article reviews what GSH is, what it does, and what health benefits it may have.

What Is GSH?

Glutathione is an antioxidant, a molecule that helps fight free radicals.

Free radicals are unstable molecules that form in response to factors like your diet and the environment. When more free radicals exist than antioxidants, oxidative cell damage occurs. This can lead to inflammation and a variety of health issues ranging from high blood pressure and diabetes to Alzheimer's disease and more.

Antioxidants are critical as they help keep things in healthy balance. Your body makes some antioxidants, but others comes from external sources like your diet or supplements like GSH.

In addition to being an antioxidant, GSH also plays a part in your body's:

• Metabolism of toxins and cancer-causing substances
• Natural creation and repair of DNA
• Production of protein and prostaglandin, a compound with hormone-like effects
• Activation of enzymes

Glutathione also helps with the breakdown of nutrients and the regulation of important body processes, such as the immune response.

What Is Glutathione Used For?

Glutathione is purported to reverse the aging process, prevent cancer, and preserve memory. It is also said to protect against a wide range of health problems, including:

• Hardened arteries (atherosclerosis)
• Lyme disease
• Alzheimer's disease
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Colitis
• High cholesterol
• Osteoarthritis
• Asthma
• Cataracts
• Diabetes
• Glaucoma
• Heart disease
• Hepatitis
• Liver disease
• Parkinson's disease
• Alcohol use disorder

Can Glutathione Help Autism?

A small study published in Medical Science Monitor in 2011 shows a connection between low glutathione levels and autism spectrum disorders.

For the study, 26 children ages 3 to 13 with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis were assigned to eight weeks of treatment. They received either oral glutathione supplements or a glutathione-containing skin lotion.

Results showed that glutathione supplements helped increase participants' glutathione levels to various degrees. The study's authors call for further research to explore the effects of using glutathione supplements for those with autism spectrum disorders.

Possible Side Effects

Due to a lack of research, little is known about the side effects of using glutathione supplements.

However, there's some concern that the use of glutathione supplements may cause cramping and bloating. In addition, some people may experience allergic reactions to glutathione supplements, such as a rash.

Dosage and Preparation

There is not enough scientific evidence to determine the proper dose of GSH. Some suggest that supplementing with N-acetylcysteine (NAC, or whey) may be more effective.

Various doses have been studied in research investigating specific medical conditions. The proper dose for you may depend on several factors, including your age, sex, and medical history.

In some cases, healthcare professionals administer glutathione through use of an IV to treat atherosclerosis, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and side effects of chemotherapy.

For some conditions, glutathione can also be inhaled and given through a nebulizer.

If you're considering the use of glutathione for a condition, make sure to consult your healthcare provider before starting your supplement regimen. Self-treating a chronic condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.

Sources of GSH

Glutathione is readily found in certain foods, such as fruits and vegetables. A study published in Nutrition and Cancer found that dairy products, cereals, and breads are generally low in GSH. Fuits and vegetables have moderate to high amounts of GSH, and freshly prepared meats are relatively high in GSH.

Glutathione dietary supplements and personal care products are widely available for purchase online and in many natural-foods stores, drugstores, and vitamin shops.

Although glutathione plays a vital role in the body, the benefits are thought to be primarily due to the cysteine that helps form it. Other supplements, such as N-acetylcysteine (NAC), may provide the cysteine needed to raise glutathione levels in the body in a less expensive way.

According to limited research, increasing the body's glutathione through diet or supplements can help with certain health conditions.

Summary

As an antioxidant, glutathione helps your body balance free radicals and stay healthy. It works at the cellular level to prevent inflammation and other cell damage that can make you sick.

GSH is found in certain foods, but can also be taken as a dietary supplement. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplements.