Have you ever heard of glutathione? It’s a powerful antioxidant found in every cell in our body, made up of three types of molecules known as amino acids. Glutathione has important functions, including making DNA, transporting mercury out of the brain, and assisting with regular cell death. Low levels of glutathione have been associated with several medical conditions, and increasing its levels has been shown to have potential health benefits. But what exactly is glutathione, and how can we naturally boost its levels? In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind glutathione and its benefits for our health.
I. Introduction
A. Definition of Glutathione
Glutathione is a vital tripeptide consisting of the amino acids cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. This molecule is found in high concentrations in most cells, roughly 5 millimolar, pointing towards its essential role in the body. Glutathione exists in two forms, reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG), with the ratio of these two states indicating the redox status of cells. It plays a crucial role in cellular detoxification, inflammation, and shielding macromolecules from reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. It neutralizes free radicals produced by liver metabolism of toxins and helps excrete toxins from cells, among other functions. Glutathione has been linked to health and longevity, with its depletion implicated in several chronic degenerative diseases. [1][2]
B. Importance of Glutathione in the Body
Glutathione plays a vital role in maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. As a powerful antioxidant, it protects the body from oxidative stress and neutralizes harmful toxins. Glutathione also aids in the production of DNA, proteins, and plays a crucial role in regular cell death. Additionally, it helps transport mercury out of the brain, maintains mitochondrial function, and has anti-inflammatory effects. Research has linked low levels of glutathione to several chronic degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases. By increasing intake of healthful foods, reducing toxin exposure, and taking supplements, glutathione levels can be naturally increased to reap its many benefits. [3][4]
II. Production and Components of Glutathione
A. Amino Acids that Comprise Glutathione
Glutathione is a tripeptide composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. These amino acids are essential for the proper function of glutathione as an important antioxidant in the body. Cysteine is particularly important as it contains a sulfhydryl group that allows glutathione to act as an electron donor and neutralize free radicals. Glutamic acid, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of glutathione, while glycine is important for the stabilization and maintenance of the tripeptide structure. Together, these amino acids give glutathione its unique properties and essential role in maintaining cellular health. [5][6]
B. Production of Glutathione in the Liver
Glutathione is synthesized in the body through a 2-step process, with the enzymes glutamate cysteine ligase (GCL) and glutathione synthetase playing a key role in de novo synthesis via ATP. It’s also regenerated from oxidized GSSG to reduced GSH through the action of glutathione reductase, which requires NADPH. Finally, cysteine can be recycled from conjugated glutathione via GGTP, which requires NADPH. All 3 methods require energy and are primarily controlled by the amino acid cysteine, which acts as the rate-limiting step. As high levels of metabolic activities are required to produce glutathione, it emphasizes its importance in maintaining a healthy body and preventing various diseases. [7][8]
III. Functions of Glutathione in the Body
A. Making DNA and Proteins
Glutathione plays a crucial role in the body’s processes for making DNA and proteins. In order to create these important building blocks, our bodies need to replicate and synthesize genetic material through a complex process of cellular division and protein synthesis. Glutathione is essential in these processes because it helps to protect the cells by preventing oxidative stress and damage to the DNA. It also aids in the transport of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Without glutathione, these processes would not be possible, and our bodies would struggle to maintain the integrity of our DNA and protein structures. Therefore, maintaining adequate levels of glutathione is essential for optimal cellular function and overall health. [9][10]
B. Detoxifying the Body
One of the most important functions of glutathione is to detoxify the body. This antioxidant works to bind to toxins, such as manmade chemicals and heavy metals, and prepare them to be eliminated. Without enough glutathione, these toxins can build up in our bodies leading to illness and disease. Depletion of glutathione has been linked to diseases like cancer, neurodegenerative disease, and cardiovascular disease. Aging, poor diet, stress, and exposure to toxins can all deplete glutathione levels in the body. Luckily, there are many effective ways to boost glutathione production, including eating high-sulfur foods like garlic and broccoli, taking supplements such as NAC and alpha lipoic acid, and ensuring proper intake of essential nutrients like magnesium, selenium, and vitamin C. Maintaining healthy glutathione levels is essential for optimal detoxification and overall health. [11][12]
C. Assisting in Regular Cell Death
Another essential function of Glutathione is its role in regular cell death or apoptosis. Apoptosis is the body’s way of eliminating damaged or unwanted cells and making way for new ones. Glutathione helps to regulate this process by maintaining the right balance of reactive oxygen species and redox signaling molecules in the cell. Without sufficient levels of Glutathione, cells may become dysfunctional and lead to various diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, and liver diseases. Furthermore, Glutathione has also been shown to transport mercury out of the brain, which can accumulate over time and impair cognitive function. So, having optimal levels of Glutathione is vital for overall health and wellbeing. [13][14]
D. Transporting Mercury Out of the Brain
Glutathione has many valuable functions in the body, including the ability to transport mercury out of the brain. While this may not seem like a major concern for most people, it is actually incredibly important for those who are exposed to high levels of mercury, such as those who work in certain industries or consume large amounts of fish. Mercury can be extremely toxic to the brain, leading to neurological problems and other health issues. Glutathione plays a key role in ensuring that excessive levels of this toxin do not accumulate in the brain over time. By promoting the safe removal of mercury, glutathione can help to protect the brain from damage and preserve cognitive function for years to come.
IV. Health Benefits of Glutathione
A. Prevention of Aging and Diseases
Glutathione holds great potential in preventing aging and various diseases that come with it. As an antioxidant, it helps protect the body from free radicals that cause cell damage and aging. Glutathione also aids in reducing the risk of oxidative stress, which can lead to chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer, and heart ailments. Additionally, it assists in regulating and supporting the immune system, preventing autoimmune diseases. Moreover, glutathione functions as a detoxifier, helping the liver eliminate harmful toxins from the body. By incorporating foods rich in glutathione, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and garlic, individuals can gain the benefits of this vital antioxidant, supporting overall health and longevity. [17][18]
B. Reduction of Cell Damage in Liver Disease
Glutathione has been found to have a positive impact on reducing cell damage in liver disease. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common liver disease that occurs due to lipid accumulation in liver cells. Studies have shown that glutathione plays a crucial role in the detoxification and antioxidant systems in cells and has been used to treat chronic liver diseases. In a pilot study, oral administration of glutathione was found to significantly decrease alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in NAFLD patients. ALT responders to glutathione treatment were younger in age and did not have severe diabetes. Further large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of glutathione in reducing cell damage in liver disease. [19][20]
