Glutathione is needed for fighting toxins

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Glutathione

What Is It?

Glutathione is a sulfur-containing amino acid that is an important

part of the body's antioxidant defense system. Glutathione is

composed of three different amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid,

and glycine. Vitamins B6 and riboflavin are critical for maintaining

adequate levels of glutathione within the body. Research suggests

that a variety of minerals, including copper and selenium, have a

strong influence on cellular levels of glutathione. In addition,

selenium is an essential part of many different forms of glutathione

that exist in the body.

Because of its antioxidant properties, glutathione neutralizes

damaging free radicals and peroxide molecules, and recharges

oxidized vitamin C, so that the body may reuse it. Glutathione is

required for a variety of metabolic processes. In addition,

glutathione bolsters the structure of body proteins and assists in

the transport of amino acids across cell membranes.

Interestingly, the phytochemical limonene may boost the body's

synthesis of a glutathione-containing enzyme that has antioxidant

properties and helps to detoxify chemicals. Limonene is found in

citrus fruit peels, cherries, green foods (celery, fennel), soy

products, and wheat. Several foods contain naturally occurring

glutathione, including avocado, watermelon, asparagus, grapefruit,

potato, acorn squash, strawberries, orange, tomato, cantaloupe,

broccoli, okra, peach, zucchini, and spinach. Note that there are no

known interactions of glutathione with food. Although a Recommended

Dietary Allowance (RDA) has not been established for glutathione, it

is critical for optimal health.

Health Benefits

Glutathione has several health benefits. Optimal amounts of

glutathione are necessary for supporting the immune system, and, in

particular, glutathione is required for replication of the

lymphocyte immune cells. Glutathione also helps the liver to

detoxify chemicals, such as acetaminophen (active ingredient in pain

relief medication), copper, and cadmium. Scientists speculate that

increasing consumption of antioxidants, such as glutathione, early

in life may promote longevity and reduce chronic disease. Research

is currently exploring the potential benefits of glutathione for

several conditions including cancer, heart disease, memory loss,

osteoarthritis, Parkinson's disease, cornea disorders, kidney

dysfunction, eczema, liver disorders, poisoning by heavy metals, and

immunodepression that occurs in diseases such as AIDS.