Supplementing glutathione could protect the body against several health problems. Some of Glutathione’s functions and benefits are listed here:
Glutathione to fight inflammation and oxidative stress: Free radicals are the byproduct of chemical reactions and our body is well equipped to tackle them. Oxidants present in the body neutralize the free radicals. When there is a mismatch, either increase in free radicals or reduction in antioxidant activity, the result is oxidative stress, which increases the risk of several disorders namely cancer, diabetes, heart diseases, etc. The potent antioxidant effect of Glutathione can clear free radicals to decrease oxidative stress. In addition, Glutathione, as mentioned earlier, reactivates other antioxidants, thereby boosting the body’s ability to fight free radicals.
Glutathione’s ability to control oxidative stress serves another useful purpose; it fights inflammation and treats autoimmune diseases. Studies show that Glutathione regulates the body’s immunological response. It also protects the mitochondria from free radicals and attack of the autoimmune diseases.
Glutathione provides relief from stress, anxiety, and depression: Research shows that people with depression also suffer from glutathione deficiency. In an animal study, the result showed the supplement effectively treated depression. In another study, researchers found that anti-anxiety medication works by increasing glutathione levels in the body.
Glutathione prevents age-related cognitive decline: When you’re awake more activity happens in the brain than any other part of the body. The brain makes up just 2% of the body weight but consumes nearly 20% of oxygen and energy. There is a flip side too; more activity means more free radicals that can damage the brain and result in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Glutathione prevents cognitive decline by curbing oxidative stress and removing toxins from the brain. By fighting cognitive decline, glutathione also improves memory, focus, and other faculties.
Other Health Benefits of Glutathione: Glutathione is also used in the treatment of attention deficit disorders (ADHD) and autism. The supplement is also known to fight infections, treat IBS and other gastrointestinal tract disorders, prevent cancer, improve kidney and cardiovascular health, prevent lung and reparatory problems, promote sleep, and improve skin health.
Dosage: There is no standardized dosage information for Glutathione. Health condition, sensitivity, and the purpose for which the supplement is to be used will determine the ideal dosage. Analysis of multiple studies involving glutathione shows the average daily dosage taken orally is about 250-500 mg.
Side Effects: Taking glutathione as a supplement is safe, but there is always the risk of side effects that tag along with supplements. The most common side effects that users might experience taking the glutathione supplement include allergic reactions (itching, rashes, hives, etc.), breathing problem, bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, weight gain, and flatulence.
What Glutathione Does |
Glutathione is a potent antioxidant |
Reactivates other antioxidants |
Curbs oxidative stress by clearing free radicals |
Reduces inflammation and regulates the body’s immunological response |
Removes toxins from the brain |
Benefits |
Provides relief from stress, anxiety, and depression |
Improves memory, focus, and other cognitive faculties |
Protects the brain by fighting neurodegeneration |
Treats symptoms of age-related cognitive disorders |
Prevents Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases |
Treats IBS and ADHD |
Promotes sleep |