Nutrition scientists and many physicians have known for years that glutathione, a small protein composed of cysteine, glutamic acid and glycine, is one of the most important protective molecules in the body. Glutathione can be made by all cells and is also provided by fresh foods in the diet. What has not been known until recently is glutathione levels in tissues and body fluids can be enhanced with oral supplementation.
“Glutathione has been the best kept secret in biochemistry and nutrition, despite the fact that it is found in every living cell in every living organism,” said John Richie, Ph.D., a glutathione researcher and professor of Public Health Sciences and Pharmacology at Penn State University College of Medicine. “It plays many important roles in metabolism, but is perhaps best known as the major detoxification compound in all living organisms.”
Among its protective roles are eliminating toxic chemicals; maintaining cell proteins; supporting immune function; regenerating vitamins C and E; and regulating cellular processes, including cell differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis.
Imbalances or deficits of glutathione generally increase susceptibility to oxidative stress and a host of related diseases. Low glutathione status has been associated with many aging and chronic conditions.1 Conversely, high glutathione levels have been correlated with better health in old age as measured by number of illnesses, blood cholesterol, blood pressure, body weight, and general physical and mental health.2,3
The potential health benefit of raising glutathione status seems self-evident; yet, clinical research with glutathione in human health has been sluggish compared to other nutrients due to lack of understanding about the fate of oral glutathione.