Glutathione is a substance produced by the liver which has many beneficial effects on the body. It is not a true amino acid (amino acids are chemicals that make up protein in our systems and that are released by the metabolism of animal protein that we eat) but is a product of the synthesis of three of these important nutrients. Produced by the liver, glutathione works as a detoxifier and an antioxidant.
The supplies of this substance in the body are found mainly in the liver, where it aids in that organ's detoxifying functions. However, it is also present in the bloodstream, where it appears to help break down oxidized fats. These fats can clog arteries and have other detrimental effects on tissues and organs. In the intestines, glutathione aids in carbohydrate digestion. Throughout the body, it destroys harmful free radicals that accelerate the aging process and contribute to disease and chronic conditions.
An adequate supply of this health protector seems especially important to alcoholics, as it protects liver cells from damage, and to smokers, whose lungs are protected from the effects of tobacco smoke. People suffering from the HIV virus also need plentiful supplies of it to prolong their lives.
A deficiency of this substance is demonstrated most clearly in the nervous system. People lacking in glutathione suffer loss of coordination and balance, develop tremors, and exhibit mental disorders. The effects of aging also are accelerated throughout the body.
As people age, their levels of the Glutathione decrease. It is not known whether this is because less of it is produced or whether more is required. Aging of both mind and body is accelerated by low levels of this substance. Therefore, it is sometimes called the most important antioxidant of them all, even more so than vitamin C. Research continues to be done on the workings of our bodies and how the many different nutrients work both alone and together.
The compound is readily available in both capsules and in formulas designed to enhance health and well-being. However, since it is not ingested naturally but produced from broken-down proteins that we do eat, taking a pill or a liquid orally may not be effective. Some trained health practitioners suggest taking the essential components instead - the amino acids cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine.
The three amino acids that the body uses to produce glutathione are cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. Most of the building blocks of protein are found in food, but they can be destroyed by cooking. Supplements of the nutrients are helpful, but care must be taken to ingest the right amounts. Too much of a good thing can actually be harmful and can cause imbalances in the delicate mechanisms of our metabolism.
Because keeping the right balance of nutrients is important, care should be taken when deciding how and when to supplement glutathione. It is best to proceed with the advice of a trained practitioner or by relying on a formula prepared by a manufacturer which bases its products on clinical testing. There is a lot of information on amino acid therapies, and many sources are peer-reviewed to be reliable. Anyone with health issues that indicate a higher need for this compound should invest the time and energy to learn how to use it to best advantage.
The supplies of this substance in the body are found mainly in the liver, where it aids in that organ's detoxifying functions. However, it is also present in the bloodstream, where it appears to help break down oxidized fats. These fats can clog arteries and have other detrimental effects on tissues and organs. In the intestines, glutathione aids in carbohydrate digestion. Throughout the body, it destroys harmful free radicals that accelerate the aging process and contribute to disease and chronic conditions.
An adequate supply of this health protector seems especially important to alcoholics, as it protects liver cells from damage, and to smokers, whose lungs are protected from the effects of tobacco smoke. People suffering from the HIV virus also need plentiful supplies of it to prolong their lives.
A deficiency of this substance is demonstrated most clearly in the nervous system. People lacking in glutathione suffer loss of coordination and balance, develop tremors, and exhibit mental disorders. The effects of aging also are accelerated throughout the body.
As people age, their levels of the Glutathione decrease. It is not known whether this is because less of it is produced or whether more is required. Aging of both mind and body is accelerated by low levels of this substance. Therefore, it is sometimes called the most important antioxidant of them all, even more so than vitamin C. Research continues to be done on the workings of our bodies and how the many different nutrients work both alone and together.
The compound is readily available in both capsules and in formulas designed to enhance health and well-being. However, since it is not ingested naturally but produced from broken-down proteins that we do eat, taking a pill or a liquid orally may not be effective. Some trained health practitioners suggest taking the essential components instead - the amino acids cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine.
The three amino acids that the body uses to produce glutathione are cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. Most of the building blocks of protein are found in food, but they can be destroyed by cooking. Supplements of the nutrients are helpful, but care must be taken to ingest the right amounts. Too much of a good thing can actually be harmful and can cause imbalances in the delicate mechanisms of our metabolism.
Because keeping the right balance of nutrients is important, care should be taken when deciding how and when to supplement glutathione. It is best to proceed with the advice of a trained practitioner or by relying on a formula prepared by a manufacturer which bases its products on clinical testing. There is a lot of information on amino acid therapies, and many sources are peer-reviewed to be reliable. Anyone with health issues that indicate a higher need for this compound should invest the time and energy to learn how to use it to best advantage.
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