Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant produced naturally by the body and found in various food sources. It plays a key role in protecting our cells from damage caused by free radicals and other harmful substances.
Here’s a look into how glutathione works in the body:
- Antioxidant function: Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes harmful free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that cause damage to cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Detoxification: Glutathione is critical in assisting your liver to eliminate toxins and harmful substances by binding them and making them easier to excrete.
- Immune function: Glutathione helps support a healthy immune system. Certain immune cells rely on glutathione for proper function. Glutathione helps boost the body’s defenses against disease and infection.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Glutathione has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like arthritis.
Maintaining adequate levels of glutathione is therefore beneficial and can be supported through encouraging endogenous production and consuming foods containing glutathione and its building blocks. Glutathione is composed of three amino acids- glycine, glutamine, and cysteine, the consumption of which is important in ensuring adequate glutathione levels.
Ways to increase endogenous glutathione production include:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in the amino acids that provide building blocks for glutathione production.
- Engage in regular movement, which has been shown to increase glutathione levels.
- Supplement N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), the precursor to glutathione production.
- Take care to reduce toxic exposures, such as cigarette smoke, pollution, heavy metals, and alcohol, as these deplete our glutathione resources as the liver uses it up in efforts to neutralize the toxin.
Consuming glutathione directly is another way to increase glutathione levels. Note that the level of glutathione in foods can vary widely based on various factors such as how fresh they are and how they are prepared for consumption.
Food sources of glutathione include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly: avocados, asparagus, broccoli, tomatoes, spinach, and okra
- Nuts and seeds, particularly: almonds and walnuts
- Animal products, particularly: fish, poultry, and lean meats
Overall, glutathione plays a critical role in maintaining the health and function of cells throughout the body. It is essential for healthy detoxification and protection against harmful substances and free radicals. As always, consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or supplement routine.
For more information about glutathione, to determine if this supplement is safe for you, and talk about ways to ensure healthy detoxification and antioxidant function, reach out to Dr. Benningfield at Natural Path Healthcare.