Glutathione is a bioactive amine and quite possibly one of the most important nutrients due to its dual role in supporting both liver and immune health. It is a tripeptide amino acid absorbed directly from food or synthesized in the body from the amino acids Cysteine, Glycine and Glutamic Acid

Functions

• Detoxification in the liver
• Anti-oxidant of reactive oxygen species and free radicals
• Regulation of redux balance
• Regulation of prostaglandin metabolism
• Deoxyribonuucleotide synthesis
• Cell proliferation
• Immune messaging

In the liver, Glutathione is needed in Phase II conjugation of toxins – making toxins water soluble prior to excretion via the kidneys. It thus plays a central role in preventing and treating cancer. It is also needed for treating inflammatory conditions (eg Arthritis) and chronic diseases (eg Diabetes), as well as proving useful in treating Parkinson’s disease and preventing blood clots in operations. Health problems will use up Glutathione, and low levels of it lead to increased risk of health problems.

Important facts about Glutathione 

• Key ingredient in production in body is cysteine along with glycine and glutamic acid
• Glutathione is the most important compound in elimination of fat soluble toxins (heavy metals, solvents, pesticides), transforming them into water soluble form for excretion via kidneys
• The faster the toxic exposure, the faster the body uses Glutathione
• Without Glutathione cells die faster, leading to faster aging or cells, tissues and organs, enhanced risk of toxin induced disease, and cancer

Deficiencies

• People with low levels Glutathione
  • Smokers
  • People chronically exposed to toxins
  • Inflammatory condition sufferers (eg rheumatoid arthritis)
  • Chronic condition sufferers (eg AIDS, diabetes)
  • Health problems
    • These deplete Glutathione in body
    • Low levels Glutathione lead to increased risk of health problems
    • Vicious cycle

Nutritional sourcing

• Glt can be found in asparagus, avocado, walnut (very rich source)
  • Cooking destroys it
  • Vit C helps body to manufacture it as well as boosting blood levels of Glutathione
  • Co-factors in production in body are: Vit B6, Riboflavin, Selenium

Adapted from:

My Liver Health Study Paper