Key Takeaways
- Glutathione is a vital antioxidant naturally produced in the body that helps protect cells from oxidative stress and supports overall wellness.*
- Aging, poor nutrition, and chronic stress can reduce glutathione levels, but a diet rich in sulfur-containing foods, antioxidants, and protein can help maintain or boost them.
- Supplementing with L-glutathione or NAC may help reinforce the body’s antioxidant defenses, especially for those looking to support muscle health and overall cellular function.*
Glutathione is an antioxidant naturally produced in the body, playing an essential role in overall wellness.
Comprised of three key amino acids—glutamine, glycine, and cysteine—glutathione helps to combat oxidative stress and maintain cellular health.*
The discovery and history of glutathione
Glutathione was first discovered in 1888 by J. de Rey-Paihade, a French scientist who identified it as a sulfur-containing compound in animal tissues. However, its structure and function were not fully understood until the 1920s when biochemists recognized its role as a tripeptide. Over the following decades, research continued to uncover glutathione’s importance in antioxidant support.
What is in glutathione?
Glutathione is composed of three amino acids, each with unique properties that contribute to its role in the body:
- Glutamine: An amino acid found abundantly in the body.
- Glycine: Involved in collagen production and other biological processes
- Cysteine: A component in glutathione synthesis and a source of sulfur
Factors that impact glutathione levels
Glutathione levels in the body can be affected by several factors, including:
- Poor nutrition: A lack of essential amino acids and antioxidants can limit glutathione production
- Stress: Chronic stress increases oxidative stress, leading to greater glutathione consumption
- Aging: As we grow older, the body’s natural glutathione production tends to decline
How to increase glutathione levels
Maintaining optimal glutathione levels is essential for overall wellness.
Here are some ways to support glutathione levels in daily life.
- Consume sulfur-rich foods: Garlic, onions, cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts), and eggs contain sulfur, which aids glutathione production
- Increase antioxidant intake: Vitamins C and E help support glutathione production
- Prioritize protein-rich foods: Sources like lean meats, fish, and plant-based proteins provide amino acids for glutathione synthesis
- Consider supplementation: Glutathione and NAC (N-acetyl cysteine) supplements can provide additional support*
Glutathione supplements
L-Glutathione
L-Glutathione is a supplement that:
- Protects muscles from oxidative stress*
- Found in both plants and animals, glutathione is a peptide made up of glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine.
- It is an important water-soluble antioxidant that plays a role in supporting muscles from free radicals.*
NAC – N-acetyl cysteine
NAC is the supplement form of cysteine, an essential amino acid that helps the body synthesize glutathione. NAC also serves as one of the body’s chief sources of sulfur, supporting multiple wellness pathways.*
By supplementing with NAC, you can help reinforce your body’s natural antioxidant defenses and promote overall health.*
If you’re looking to support your body’s natural antioxidant system, consider adding glutathione or NAC to your daily wellness routine. Always discuss using new supplements with your healthcare practitioner.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
